Discover the Science Behind Vaccines

antibody: A diverse range of proteins produced by B cells, released into the bloodstream as part of the immune response. Antibodies are generated when the body encounters an antigen, a foreign substance. They bind to the antigen, marking the initial step in eliminating bacteria or other pathogens related to these antigens.

engineer: Individuals who apply science and mathematics to address issues. As a verb, to engineer means to design a device, material, or process that resolves specific problems or meets unmet needs.

influenza: Commonly referred to as the flu, this highly contagious viral infection affects the respiratory tract, leading to fever and severe discomfort. It often manifests in seasonal outbreaks.

germ: A microscopic single-celled organism, including bacteria, fungal species, or viral particles. While certain bacteria can cause illness, others contribute positively to the health of more complex organisms, like birds and mammals. However, the health implications of many bacteria remain unclear.

Immunity: (adj.) Pertaining to immune defense. (v.) It can prevent certain infectious diseases. This term can also signify an organism’s resistance to specific toxins or processes, indicating that a drug, illness, or chemical is harmless to it.

Immune system: A network of cells and their interactions that aids the body in combating infections and managing foreign entities that may provoke allergic responses.

infection: A disease capable of transmitting between organisms, typically caused by some form of microorganism.

measles: An extremely contagious viral disease, primarily affecting children. Symptoms include distinctive rashes, headaches, runny nose, and widespread coughing. Complications such as brain swelling (leading to possible brain damage) and pneumonia can arise, both of which may be fatal. Thankfully, since the 1960s, vaccines have significantly lowered the risk of infection.

Microorganisms: A term for organisms that are microscopic, including bacteria, certain fungi, and other tiny lifeforms like amoebae, mostly consisting of single cells.

Mumps: A highly contagious viral illness in children, marked by swollen cheeks and jaws due to inflammation of the salivary glands. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headaches, and general flu-like fatigue. The virus spreads through sneezing, coughing, or contact with contaminated items such as utensils or hands. Rarely, it may result in inflammation of the brain or spinal cord, leading to hearing loss.

nose: Related to the anatomical structure of the nose.

Pathogens: Another term for microorganisms that are invisible to the naked eye, including bacteria, selected fungi, and various single-celled organisms like amoebae.

Polio: An infectious viral disease targeting the central nervous system, potentially leading to either temporary or permanent paralysis.

protein: A compound composed of one or more long chains of amino acids. Proteins play a crucial role in all living organisms, forming the basis of living cells, muscles, and tissues, and performing essential cellular functions. Examples include antibodies, hemoglobin, and enzymes. Many drugs function by interacting with proteins.

rubella: Often called “German” measles or 3-day measles, this formerly common childhood infectious disease typically causes mild fever and facial rashes that spread across the body. Nearly half of those infected exhibit no symptoms. A key concern is for infants exposed during pregnancy, as they may develop complications like hearing loss, vision issues, heart defects, mental retardation, and damage to the liver or spleen.

vaccine: (v. Vaccination) A biological preparation similar to disease-causing agents, administered to help the body develop immunity to specific illnesses. The process of delivering most vaccines is known as vaccination.