Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens by introducing harmless components like inactivated viruses or proteins. This creates immunity by teaching the body to respond quickly and effectively during future exposures. Vaccines have eradicated or controlled diseases like smallpox, polio, and measles, saving millions of lives. They are crucial for preventing outbreaks, protecting vulnerable populations, and reducing healthcare costs. Misinformation and vaccine hesitancy, however, pose challenges that require education and trust-building efforts.
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Vaccines work by introducing weakened or inactive parts of a pathogen (antigen) to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies. This prepares the body to recognize and fight the real pathogen in the future. They are essential for public health as they prevent the spread of infectious diseases, reduce mortality rates, and promote herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations. Vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or controlling diseases like polio and measles, making them a cornerstone of modern healthcare.