The immune system is quite remarkable as it helps fight against various disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and fungi. However, sometimes, these organisms can affect the body with or without any signs or symptoms. It could also happen due to ineffective protection provided by a weakened immune system.
Scientists have studied the immune system and its workings closely. Studies have found that the immune system is adaptable and can create chemical substances or antibodies that can effectively destroy these organisms. Since each bacterium, virus, or fungi has its own special characteristics, the immune system will have to be provided with active immunity against such diseases. A vaccine is one such method through which one can efficiently fight against various disease-causing organisms.
Vaccines are most often dead or very weak strains of the actual disease-causing organism. This is enough to trigger the immune system to find the appropriate substance that can identify the foreign body, attach itself to the foreign body, and destroy it. Medical science has understood that chemical substances, like proteins in foreign organisms, are key to their power to cause certain diseases. If stimulated appropriately, the immune system can create appropriate substances to neutralize these dangerous substances.
The human body is quite complex and our complete understanding of its workings may take many more years of research. For all the substances and techniques developed to reduce or eliminate diseases and disorders, there are cases where the method or substance may not be as effective as desired. There may be undesirable effects and this can happen with vaccines as well. The side-effects of vaccinations are as varied as the diseases that can be controlled by vaccinations. Research and clinical trials are scrupulously executed to ensure that a vaccine remains effective. Some undesirable side-effects mostly include mild symptoms; however, in rare cases, it can cause a level of debility that needs immediate medical care.
Moreover, studies have been conducted to disprove those theories put forth by those arguing against the effectiveness of vaccinations. Some have been successful in doing so, with a result that compelled some agencies to retract their vaccinations.
Vaccinations are the best method to control diseases that can be a threat to large populations or even during an outbreak. History has shown that fast-spreading diseases like smallpox and debilitating diseases like polio can be eradicated by a concerted worldwide vaccination program.
It is essential to check the Vaccination Information Statement (VISs) provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC). The VIS contains information about both the benefits and risks of vaccinations to a vaccine recipient. For further information, you can visit the official site of the CDC.
