Your immune system protects you against many disease-causing contaminants, including viruses and bacteria. Vaccines are used to enhance the function of your immune system against specific illnesses and diseases, which is a process known as immunisation. Immunisation not only benefits individuals, but it also benefits whole communities by reducing the risk of dangerous diseases and infections.
Different vaccinations are used to protect against various illnesses. Common vaccinations include:
Hepatitis A is a viral infection that impacts the liver. It’s usually caused by consuming contaminated water or food or being exposed to a person with the infection. While many people recover from the illness on their own, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications.
Hepatitis B is associated with a more serious liver infection. It can result from unsafe sex and intravenous drug use but can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy. Many people recover from the effects of the illness, but for others it can become a chronic condition.
Malaria results from the bite of a mosquito infected by a parasite, but certain medication can prevent malaria infections even when a person is exposed. This medication must be taken over a period of time to afford consistent protection.
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Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR)
Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Rabies is a fatal illness that is passed along by the bite of an infected animal, including dogs. There is no cure for rabies but receiving the vaccine immediately after a possible infection can stop it from developing.
Some illnesses can be prevented with immunisation, including:
TB can be avoided with the Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is given to babies and children in high-risk communities. TB can cause severe respiratory effects and is highly contagious, so vaccination is crucial to preventing health issues.