Development of Novel Vaccines in the U.S. has proven to be Critical in Impeding Outbreaks of Various Infectious Diseases
A vaccine prevents infection by providing a defense against foreign microorganisms that are not known to be part of the human immune system. In order for a vaccinated person to have full immunity, it must also be exposed to an infected organism for an extended period of time. Common types of vaccines include Rabies, Rubella, Hepatitis A, Chickenpox, Mumps, and Lassa. An attenuated vaccine works by recognizing and countering viruses that have already infected the body's immune systems. These viruses are called antigens, which are present in bacteria and viruses. By injecting the antigens into the body, the immune system is able to safely recognize them as dangerous invaders, develop antibodies, and store them for future use.
One type of newly developed vaccine is the Varivax vaccine. It works best on children aged three to six years old who do not have regular vaccinations. This vaccine prevents illness caused by a disease called pertussis, which is highly contagious. It also prevents illness caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. An inactivated virus vaccine, such as Gardasil, is more similar to an inactivated bird flu vaccine. The inactive virus is put inside the egg at the time of conception. When the egg grows into a chick, there is an antibody that recognizes the Gardasil protein and attacks it. The chickens' immune response to the vaccine protects them from getting sick.
MMR vaccine (MMR), measles vaccine (measles), and rubella vaccine (raccoon) were introduced to the U.S. in measles outbreaks in kindergarten. Between measles outbreaks, research showed that children who received one or both of these vaccines during childhood were less likely to experience illness associated with the disease. Moreover, adults between the ages of fifteen and thirty-four were less likely to suffer complications associated with either measles or rubella. With the outbreak of COVID-19, many pharmaceutical companies have been involved in R&D activities to develop a vaccine. Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Pfizer vaccine indicated for COVID-19.
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