How vaccines train immunity flashcards

What is a vaccine?

A vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight diseases.

True or false: Vaccines contain live viruses.

False, because most vaccines use inactivated or weakened pathogens.

Difference between active and passive immunity

- Active: body produces antibodies - Passive: antibodies given from another source

What do adjuvants do?

Adjuvants enhance the immune response to the vaccine, boosting efficacy.

Fill in the blank: Vaccines help develop ______ immune memory.

long-term

How do mRNA vaccines work?

They deliver genetic instructions to cells to produce a harmless spike protein.

True or false: Vaccines can cause the disease they prevent.

False, because vaccines train immunity without causing full-blown illness.

What are antibodies?

Proteins produced by the immune system to identify and neutralize pathogens.

What is herd immunity?

Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community becomes immune, protecting others.

Difference between live and inactivated vaccines

- Live: contains weakened pathogens - Inactivated: contains killed pathogens

Which cells play a key role in memory immune response?

Memory B cells and T cells remember pathogens for faster future responses.

Fill in the blank: Vaccines are usually administered via ______.

injection

What is the purpose of booster shots?

Booster shots re-expose the immune system to the antigen, enhancing immunity.

True or false: Vaccines guarantee 100% immunity.

False, because some vaccines result in partial immunity.

What role do T cells have?

T cells help kill infected cells and orchestrate the immune response.