Final answer:
Immunizations help prevent diseases by stimulating the immune system to fight specific pathogens. They provide individual protection and contribute to herd immunity, reducing the spread of diseases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immunizations are a critical tool in preventing certain diseases. They work by stimulating the immune system to produce an immune response against specific pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses. This helps the body recognize and fight these pathogens more effectively in the future.
For example, the measles vaccine introduces a weakened form of the measles virus into the body. This triggers the immune system to produce antibodies that protect against future infections. If a person who has been vaccinated comes into contact with the actual measles virus, their immune system recognizes it and mounts a rapid response, preventing the virus from causing illness.
By getting vaccinated, individuals not only protect themselves but also contribute to herd immunity. This means that when a large proportion of the population is immunized, the spread of a disease is significantly reduced, making it harder for the pathogen to find susceptible individuals and causing outbreaks.
Learn more about Immunizations and disease prevention