Vaccines have saved millions of lives over the years by preventing diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria from spreading. But as more people refuse to vaccinate their children because of unfounded fears, those numbers could rise again. This post will explore the mandates of a vaccine.
Prevents diseases
Vaccines are typically thought to work by stimulating the body’s immune system to defend against disease-causing microorganisms, called pathogens. The weakened or killed virus in a vaccine cannot make you sick, but your body can develop the ability to fight the real thing. This is called immunity and the only way to build it is through vaccines.
Safe to use
Vaccines are tested extensively for safety and effectiveness before they come to market. In the United States, vaccines must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that vaccines have met strict scientific guidelines, proving them safe and effective. Most vaccine reactions are mild such as fever, redness or soreness where they were given, or temporary aches. Severe side effects are very rare but may include allergic reactions, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur within minutes after vaccination occurs in someone who is known to be allergic to certain vaccine components.
Prevent epidemics
If a critical number of people in a community are vaccinated against the same disease, the odds of outbreaks become very small. This is called ‘herd immunity. Even those who cannot be vaccinated because they have compromised immune systems or other conditions benefit from herd immunity. This is why it is so important for everyone to get vaccinated, especially when an epidemic is looming.
Protects future generations
When enough people are vaccinated, diseases stop spreading. This protects everyone, including future generations because many vaccine-preventable diseases have no cure. Preventing disease through vaccination is one of the most successful and cost-effective health strategies in history. It is crucial to maintain high vaccination rates to ensure that these diseases do not return. Vaccines were responsible for making our world what it is today with all the achievements we’ve had so far.
Vaccines have saved millions of lives over the years by preventing diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria from spreading. We must keep vaccinating ourselves and our children to protect against outbreaks.