NUR 324. Vaccines.Immunizations

Active immunity

Immunity produced by the host's own immune system in response to the presence of an antigen, resulting in the formation of memory cells.

Passive immunity

Immunity provided by the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another, typically providing short-term protection without the development of memory cells.

Vaccine

An immunization containing weakened or altered protein antigens that stimulate the formation of antibodies against a specific disease.

Herd immunity

Immunity that occurs when a high percentage of the population is vaccinated or has had the disease, decreasing overall risk of disease transmission.

Vaccine hesitancy

The delay in acceptance or refusal of vaccines despite their availability, which can impact herd immunity.

mRNA vaccines

Vaccines produced by genetic engineering technology that use messenger RNA to instruct cells to produce a viral protein and elicit an immune response.

Adverse effect of vaccines

Reactions associated with the immune or inflammatory response to a vaccine, which can be localized or systemic, with mild to severe manifestations.

Recommended immunization schedule

The annual publication by the CDC outlining vaccination recommendations based on disease prevalence and new developments.

Live attenuated vaccines

Vaccines containing live microorganisms that have been weakened, inducing an immune response similar to natural infection without causing the disease.

Contraindications to vaccines

Specific situations or conditions where vaccination should not take place, including pregnancy, immune deficiency, and known allergies to vaccine components.