L11. Vaccines Theory and Practise

Question 1

Why are vaccinations so successful?

Answer 1

Because it is successful and cost effective

Question 2

What gives rise to new pandemics, and why does this occur more in the east?

Answer 2

> Species leaps give rise to new pandemics

> So in countries with species like apes who are closely related to us, that’s why in England not many new diseases start but they do in the east.

Question 3

What is a zoonotic infection?

Answer 3

A zoonotic infection in which a pathogen jumps hosts from animal to humans

Question 4

What are the key concepts of modern immunisation and vaccines under active immunisation?

Answer 4

Active immunisation involves manipulating the immune system to generate a persistent protective response against pathogens. It is achieved through immunisation with a vaccine that triggers an immune response, safely mimicking a natural infection. This process mobilizes the appropriate arms of the immune system and generates immunological memory.

Question 5

What are the main components of the adaptive immune system involved in immunisation?

Answer 5

The adaptive immune system’s main components involved in immunisation are T and B lymphocytes. These cells are responsible for antibody production and specific T cell responses against pathogens.

Question 6

What is the difference between passive and active immunisation?

Answer 6

Passive immunisation involves the transfer of preformed antibodies, either naturally (such as maternal antibodies across the placenta) or artificially. It provides immediate but temporary protection. Active immunisation, on the other hand, involves stimulating the body’s immune system to produce its own antibodies, providing long-lasting immunity.

Question 7

What are the indications for the use of artificial passive immunity?

Answer 7

Artificial passive immunity is used in individuals with agammaglobulinemia or B cell defects (inborn or acquired), treated with pooled normal human IgG. It’s also used for immediate protection in immune-compromised patients exposed to measles or other pathogens, or when there is no time for active immunization to take effect, such as with pathogens having a short incubation time.