Final answer:
Vaccinations prompt a primary immune response which establishes immune memory, allowing for a rapid and strong secondary immune response upon re-exposure to the pathogen, often preventing illness. This statement is true.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that vaccinations elicit a primary immune response so that secondary immune responses are rapid and symptoms are mild is true. Vaccination introduces noninfectious antigens to the body, prompting a mild primary immune response that doesn't cause illness but establishes immune memory. Upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen, the body's immune system can mount a quick and robust secondary immune response, often preventing the pathogen from causing significant illness. To maintain this heightened state of readiness, booster vaccinations might be necessary, as they help to replenish memory cells that can die off over time.