Live Attenuated Vaccines Quizlet
Introduction:
Live attenuated vaccines are a type of vaccine that contains a weakened or live but attenuated form of the pathogen. These vaccines offer long-lasting immunity against various diseases. In this Quizlet, we will explore the concept of live attenuated vaccines, their advantages, and examples of diseases that are preventable through these vaccines.
I. Understanding Live Attenuated Vaccines:
Live attenuated vaccines contain a weakened form of the disease-causing pathogen. These pathogens are altered in the laboratory so that they cannot cause severe illness in vaccinated individuals. However, they can still replicate within the body, stimulating a strong immune response and ultimately providing immunity against the disease.
II. Advantages of Live Attenuated Vaccines:
1. Long-lasting Immunity: Live attenuated vaccines stimulate both the humoral and cellular immune responses, leading to robust and long-lasting immunity against the targeted disease.
2. Mimicking Natural Infection: Live attenuated vaccines closely mimic natural infections, providing a comprehensive immune response. This leads to the development of memory cells, ensuring a quick and effective response if exposed to the disease in the future.
3. Herd Immunity: Live attenuated vaccines can contribute to herd immunity by reducing the spread of the disease within the population. This protects those individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical conditions, age, or other factors.
III. Examples of Diseases Preventable by Live Attenuated Vaccines:
1. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine: The MMR vaccine contains live attenuated forms of measles, mumps, and rubella viruses. It is administered to children in two doses, providing immunity against these highly contagious diseases.
2. Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine: The varicella vaccine contains a weakened form of the varicella-zoster virus, preventing chickenpox. It is recommended for children and adults who have not had the disease or the vaccine.
3. Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV): OPV contains live attenuated poliovirus strains and is administered orally. It has been instrumental in the global eradication efforts of polio.
4. Yellow Fever Vaccine: The yellow fever vaccine contains a live attenuated strain of the yellow fever virus. It is recommended for individuals traveling to areas where yellow fever is endemic.
Conclusion:
Live attenuated vaccines play a crucial role in preventing the spread of various infectious diseases. By using weakened forms of the pathogen, these vaccines offer long-lasting immunity, mimicking natural infections and providing a comprehensive immune response. Examples of diseases preventable by live attenuated vaccines include measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, polio, and yellow fever. These vaccines contribute to herd immunity and protect vulnerable individuals who cannot receive the vaccine.
