Announcements & Flu Shot Requirement

• Instructor initiates a discussion about upcoming tests, stating they have communicated what is on the test weekly.

• Critical reminder for all students:

  • Flu Shot Requirement:

  • If a student did not receive their flu shot, they must do so by tomorrow at 03:00.

  • Submission of proof of vaccination is necessary for clinical participation.

  • Lack of proof could lead to being turned away from clinical by the instructor.

  • Two unexcused absences can result in removal from the course.

• Emphasis on the importance of flu vaccination:

  • The instructor expresses frustration about anti-vaccine sentiments influencing public health.

  • Importance of providing accurate vaccine information to the community.

  • Vaccination is a significant means of preventing communicable diseases in children.

Overview of the Immune System

• Understanding the immune system is necessary to communicate effectively about vaccination.

• The immune system comprises three main components:

  • Cells

  • Types:

    • White blood cells (Leukocytes)

    • Neutrophils: First line of defense against bacterial infections; engulf and destroy bacteria.

    • Lymphocytes: Involved in the response to viral infections; types include T cells and B cells.

      • T cells: Attack virus-infected cells directly (often referred to as killer T cells).

      • B cells: Produce antibodies to target pathogens.

    • Monocytes: Clean up cellular debris after an infection.

    • Red blood cells and platelets also play a role in immune response (but mainly transport oxygen and aid in clotting).

  • Tissues

  • Mucus membranes:

    • Produce mucus, trapping pathogens (found in respiratory, gastrointestinal tract).

    • Help prevent pathogen entry into the body.

  • Lymph nodes:

    • Act as filters for pathogens and produce white blood cells.

  • Bone marrow:

    • Major factory for producing all leukocytes.

  • Tonsils: Serve as lymph nodes that filter and produce white blood cells.

  • Organs

  • Skin: The first physical barrier to pathogens; requires regular assessment for breakdown to prevent infection.

  • Spleen: Filters and produces white blood cells (important in systemic immunity).

  • Thymus: Functions as a site for T-cell maturation.

Immune Response & The Concept of Immunity

• Immunity is defined as the protection provided by the immune system, which can be classified into three major types:

  • Innate Immunity:

  • Present at birth; does not adapt or change.

  • Physical barriers include skin and mucous membranes; physiological barriers include gastric acid.

  • Active Immunity:

  • Develops after exposure to an antigen or vaccination; the body produces antibodies.

  • Examples include acquiring immunity after infection or receiving vaccinations.

  • Passive Immunity:

  • Occurs when antibodies are transferred from one individual to another (e.g., maternal antibodies to fetus).

  • Can also be provided through medical interventions, such as IV immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy.

Detailed Overview of Antibodies and Antigens

• Antibodies: Chemicals produced primarily by B cells.

  • React to specific antigens, which are unique markers on the surface of pathogens.

• Antibodies form a response only after the body’s first exposure to an antigen, creating a memory for future exposures.

• Examples:

  • Exposure to chickenpox results in memory B cells producing antibodies to combat future infections.

• HIV attacks specific T cells, compromising the immune response.

Vaccination Types and Their Efficacies

• Types of Vaccines:

  • Inactivated Vaccines:

  • The pathogen is killed/inactivated and cannot cause disease; requires multiple boosters for immunity (e.g., the flu vaccine).

  • Live Attenuated Vaccines:

  • Contain weakened forms of the live pathogen, elicit a robust response; few doses needed (e.g., MMR vaccine).

  • Caution in use for immunocompromised individuals.

  • Toxoid Vaccines:

  • Contain inactivated toxins to elicit an immune response (e.g., tetanus vaccine).

Vaccination Protocols & Administration

• Preparation for administration includes:

  • Obtaining informed consent.

  • Providing Vaccine Information Sheets (VIS).

• Ensure correct administration route (IM, SubQ) based on the vaccine's specifications.

• Post-vaccination instructions may include monitoring for adverse effects and pain management (Tylenol permitted, but not aspirin).

Misconceptions Around Vaccination

• Address common misconceptions:

  • No causative link between vaccines and autism has been demonstrated despite extensive research.

  • Importance of accurate information to counter vaccination hesitancy in the community.

Handling of Severe Allergic Reactions

• Importance of having immediate access to EpiPens for at-risk individuals.

• Recognition of symptoms indicating a serious allergic reaction and initiating treatment promptly.

Overview of Specific Diseases: Meningitis, Pertussis, & Others

• Meningitis overview:

  • Severe bacterial infection affecting the central nervous system, characterized by rapid onset symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and possibly showing a bulging fontanel in infants.

  • Medical management prioritizes broad-spectrum antibiotics and supportive care while awaiting CSF culture results.

• Pertussis characteristics:

  • Affects primarily infants; necessitates herd immunity to protect unvaccinated infants.

  • Managed with antibiotics upon diagnosis, highlighting the importance of active immunization in the community.

• Recognition of Lyme disease and the importance of preventive measures (e.g., DEET application, tick checks).

Conclusion

• Preparation and understanding of the immune system, vaccination impacts, and communicable disease management are critical for healthcare professionals in guiding families and ensuring public health.