The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

vaccine

IPA:

Dictionary definition of vaccine

A biological substance designed to stimulate the immune system and provide protection against specific diseases.
"Vaccines stimulate the immune system to fight against targeted diseases."

Detailed meaning of vaccine

It is typically composed of weakened or inactivated pathogens, parts of pathogens, or their toxins, which are introduced into the body through injection, ingestion, or nasal sprays. Vaccines work by mimicking the infection process, triggering an immune response that helps the body recognize and fight the targeted disease-causing agent. This immune response leads to the production of antibodies, memory cells, and other immune system components that provide long-term immunity. Vaccines have played a critical role in preventing and eradicating numerous infectious diseases, saving countless lives and improving public health. They have been developed for a wide range of illnesses, including measles, polio, influenza, hepatitis, and COVID-19. Vaccination is a vital public health measure, protecting not only the individual receiving the vaccine but also vulnerable populations by reducing the transmission of infectious agents. Through widespread vaccination campaigns, vaccines have contributed significantly to disease control and prevention efforts globally.

Example sentences containing vaccine

1. Vaccines are essential for preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
2. Getting vaccinated can provide immunity against specific illnesses.
3. The development of vaccines has revolutionized modern medicine.
4. Vaccines help protect individuals and communities from dangerous pathogens.
5. Many childhood diseases have been significantly reduced due to widespread vaccination.
6. Vaccines have saved countless lives throughout history.

History and etymology of vaccine

The noun 'vaccine,' derived from the Latin word 'vaccinus,' has its origins in the pioneering work of Edward Jenner, an English physician. The term 'vaccinus' itself is derived from 'vacca,' which means 'cow' in Latin. Jenner's groundbreaking discovery in the late 18th century involved using cowpox, a related virus, to protect against smallpox. He coined the term 'vaccine' to describe this novel approach, as it was based on the Latin word for cow. Jenner's work laid the foundation for modern immunization practices, and the term 'vaccine' has since come to represent a biological substance designed to stimulate the immune system and provide protection against specific diseases, illustrating the enduring influence of its etymology on the field of medicine.

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Further usage examples of vaccine

1. Annual flu vaccines are recommended to prevent seasonal influenza.
2. Vaccine research and development involve rigorous testing and safety protocols.
3. Vaccines are administered through various methods, including injections and nasal sprays.
4. The effectiveness of vaccines relies on achieving high vaccination rates within a population.
5. The vaccine rollout accelerated as cases surged.
6. Herd immunity relies on widespread vaccine coverage.
7. Vaccine hesitancy remains a public health challenge.
8. The new vaccine offers hope for a brighter future.
9. Getting the flu vaccine is a yearly ritual.
10. Vaccine research has made remarkable progress.
11. Vaccine passports may become a travel requirement.
12. Access to vaccines is crucial for global health.
13. The vaccine's efficacy was proven in trials.
14. Vaccine distribution is a complex logistical task.
15. Vaccines have saved countless lives throughout history.
16. Vaccine development requires rigorous testing.
17. The pediatrician recommended the MMR vaccine.
18. Vaccine distribution centers are operating 24/7.
19. Vaccine misinformation can undermine trust.
20. The vaccine clinic had a steady stream of visitors.
21. Public health campaigns promote vaccine awareness.
22. The vaccine offers protection against severe illness.
23. Vaccine mandates sparked a debate among citizens.
24. Vaccine supplies are being allocated worldwide.