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When your body becomes infected by a pathogenic agent, such as a virus, you produce an immune response which basically destroys the agent as well as any cells that have been invaded and your body is then rid of the infection. This immune response occurs because the body recognises molecules on the surface of the agent as being foreign and then produces cells that are specifically to attack this kind of agent. Some of these cells are kept in the body so that if the same infection strikes again, the body can produce an immune response that is bigger and begins much more quickly so that the individual doesn't suffer the disease. Immunizations effectively mimic the initial infection, causing the individual to produce memory cells so that they are prepared should the actual infection strike. However instead of being given the live infectious agent, which would cause the individual to have the disease, immunizations administer a form of the agent which is in some way deactivated. This means that an immune response will be produced specific to that infection and the individual will be protected from then on but they will not suffer from the disease.

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Are immunizations dangerous?

Immunizations are an exercise in risk. First of all, not all immunizations are alike, and some kinds of immunizations use fragments of a potential pathogen and some kinds of immunizations use whole and viable, but weakened immunizations. So one cannot speak to the issue of ALL immunizations with similar statements of risk. However, some general statements regarding risks can be made. Immunizations, on the whole, reduce the overall death rate for the disease in the selected population. Some immunizations in the past (and surely in the future), may contain impurities and/or have unforeseen consequences which may lead to death or illness. All immunizations carry some degree of risk, and occasionally, that risk is not well defined. Most immunizations carry a very small degree of risk and the benefits of the vaccine are far outweigh the risks. Some deaths may occur (due to anaphylactic shock, sepsis, etc) even for immunizations that carry an "acceptable" level of risk. Forced immunizations for illnesses that have a low prevalence may be argued to have an unacceptable degree of risk, even though the inherent risk is otherwise negligible. Overall, based on risk-benefit analyses, when deciding whether to receive an immunization treatment (such as a flu vaccine), it is generally better to accept the small risk associated with the treatment, to receive the great benefit conveyed. Furthermore, by accepting the risk, one is also benefiting society by increasing "herd immunity" that can help prevent the widespread migration of a pathogen. When making the decision for one's children the decision can be more challenging due to our inherent desire to protect our children, and the immediate "threat" appears to be greater than the "what if" threat posed by a potential illness - nevertheless, especially then, we need to be open to the objective consultations of the medical community.


What is it called when a dead or inactive microorganisms that are given to children to help prevent them from catching a serious illness?

It is called a vaccine, which helps stimulate the body's immune response to produce immunity against specific diseases.


Cell crossword puzzle answers?

This is not a question. Being that this is not a complete question it can not be answered. If the clues for the crossword puzzle were provided they could be answered.


What does a CHIP consist of?

A CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) typically consists of benefits such as doctor visits, immunizations, prescriptions, dental care, vision care, and inpatient/outpatient hospital services for children from low-income families who do not qualify for Medicaid. Each state administers its own CHIP program with federal funding support.


What is the most significant reason for the dramatic increase in life span over 100 years?

The most significant reason for the dramatic increase in life span over the past 100 years is advancements in medicine and healthcare, including vaccines, antibiotics, and improved surgical techniques. Additionally, improvements in public health measures, such as sanitation and access to clean water, have played a crucial role in increasing life expectancy.

Related Questions

Can you get immunizations for lupus?

There are no immunizations for lupus because lupus is not contagious. Immunizations protect you from pathogens. Lupus is not caused by a pathogen, therefore there is no possibility of immunization.


Why are immunizations important?

Immunizations are important because, well, they help you to become immune to illnesses.


Do immunizations cause problems?

Some immunizations may cause mild side effects, or more rarely, serious adverse reactions


Why do people and animals have to get immunizations?

We get immunizations to aid our immune systems to fight different infections illnesses and diseases. Such as influenza, chicken pox.


How many immunizations do you have to get to go to the Galapagos?

You don't need any immunizations to go to the Galapagos Islands. There's no danger of contagious diseases on this Archipelago.


Can a medical assistant administer H1N1?

Medical Assistants are not allowed to administer Immunizations, they are not licensed and does not have authority to administer, authority exists them to give immunizations.


Why are immunizations given to school students?

you smell


Will a IGG tell if your immune to certain immunizations?

No


What are the medical defensive measures?

immunizations and pharmacological


Can you receive immunizations while menstruating?

Yes, you can


Protective actions such as obtaining immunizations?

biological


Do planned parenthood offer immunizations?

All Planned Parenthood affiliates offer at least some immunizations. Contact your local office for information specific to your location.