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Vaccines 101

What Do Vaccines Do?

Vaccines are intended to prepare your immune system to fight off infections and prevent disease. But do you know how they do it exactly?

The Human Immune System and Infectious Disease

The human immune system is essential for our survival in a world full of potentially dangerous microbes.

Passive Immunization

You don't always need to be exposed to a pathogen, or part of it, to be immune. Sometimes, an infusion of antibodies from a donor is enough to give you immunity.

Different Types of Vaccines

There are several types of vaccines, each created in a different way and for a different purpose.

Viruses and Evolution

Pathogens are always evolving, adapting to the pressures put on them by their environment. This could be a problem.

Disease Elimination and Eradication

Eradication means the disease is no longer found anywhere in the world. Only two diseases have been eradicated: one human and one in animals.