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Vacuna Covid

How Vaccines Work: A Comprehensive Guide

What are vaccines?

Vaccines are biological preparations that provide active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease. They typically contain either a killed or weakened form of the microbe, such as a virus or bacteria, or a part of the microbe, such as a capsular antigen or a polysaccharide. When a vaccine is administered, the immune system recognizes the microbe and produces antibodies that will protect against future infection.

How do vaccines work?

When a vaccine is introduced into the body, the immune system responds as if it is being infected with the real disease. The immune system produces antibodies that specifically bind to the antigens on the surface of the microbe. These antibodies “tag” the microbes for destruction by other cells of the immune system.

In addition to producing antibodies, the immune system also produces memory cells that will remember the microbe and will help to mount a faster and stronger immune response if the body is ever exposed to the real disease in the future.

What are the different types of vaccines?

Live attenuated vaccines

Live attenuated vaccines contain a weakened form of the live microbe. When the vaccine is administered, the immune system responds as if it is being infected with the real disease. However, because the microbe is weakened, it cannot cause disease. Live attenuated vaccines are usually very effective and provide long-lasting protection.

Inactivated vaccines

Inactivated vaccines contain a killed form of the microbe. When the vaccine is administered, the immune system responds as if it is being infected with the real disease. However, because the microbe is killed, it cannot cause disease. Inactivated vaccines are usually less effective than live attenuated vaccines, but they are also safer.

Subunit vaccines

Subunit vaccines contain only a part of the microbe, such as a capsular antigen or a polysaccharide. When the vaccine is administered, the immune system responds as if it is being infected with the real disease. However, because the vaccine only contains a part of the microbe, it cannot cause disease. Subunit vaccines are usually less effective than live attenuated or inactivated vaccines, but they are also safer.

Toxoid vaccines

Toxoid vaccines contain a chemically modified form of a bacterial toxin. When the vaccine is administered, the immune system responds as if it is being exposed to the real toxin. However, because the toxin is modified, it cannot cause disease. Toxoid vaccines are usually very effective and provide long-lasting protection.

How are vaccines safe?

Vaccines are one of the most effective and safest ways to prevent disease. They have been used for centuries to protect people from serious infections, such as smallpox, measles, and polio. Vaccines are carefully tested before they are approved for use, and they are continually monitored for safety. The vast majority of people who receive vaccines do not experience any serious side effects.

Why is it important to get vaccinated?

Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself from serious diseases. Vaccines are safe and effective, and they can help you to avoid pain, suffering, and even death. If you are not vaccinated, please talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated today.

Conclusion

Vaccines are an essential part of public health. They have saved millions of lives and helped to prevent the spread of serious diseases. If you are not vaccinated, please talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated today.