Final answer:
A core vaccine is recommended for all individuals of a species to prevent infections from widespread and dangerous pathogens. Vaccines work by exposing the immune system to antigens that will provoke immunity without causing the disease, thereby preparing the body to fight off future infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of a Core Vaccine
A core vaccine is a type of vaccine that is recommended for all members of a particular species. These vaccines protect against pathogens that are widespread and carry a significant risk of causing severe diseases. The concept of vaccination involves the introduction of an antigen, such as an inactivated infectious agent, into the body to stimulate an immune response without causing the actual disease. This train of the immune system helps to create memory cells that will recognize the same pathogen in the future and mount a quicker defense.
Vaccines can consist of live attenuated or killed pathogens, purified viral proteins, or genetically engineered components. For example, modern sub-unit vaccines use specific antigenic proteins from the pathogen to elicit an immune response. These advanced vaccines have led to a decrease in the morbidity and mortality associated with diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, and rubella.