Subtitle Forum: How Many Diseases Can Be Prevented by Immunization?
Immunization is one of the most successful public health interventions of all time. Vaccines have been used to prevent diseases for centuries, and they continue to be a key tool in the global fight against infectious diseases. Immunization has been estimated to prevent up to 3 million deaths every year, by preventing diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, measles, and polio.
Diphtheria is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It can lead to severe illness, including difficulty breathing, heart damage, and paralysis. The diphtheria vaccine is part of the combination vaccine known as DTaP, which also includes vaccines for tetanus and acellular pertussis. This vaccine is typically given in five doses, at two months, four months, six months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years of age.
Tetanus is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It is characterized by muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and sometimes death. The tetanus vaccine is typically given as part of the DTaP combination vaccine, and booster doses are recommended every 10 years.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that is spread through coughing and sneezing. It can cause serious illness, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. The measles vaccine is typically given as part of the MMR vaccine, which also includes vaccines for mumps and rubella. This vaccine is typically given in two doses, with the second dose given when the child is between four and six years of age.
Polio is a virus that can cause paralysis and even death. The polio vaccine is typically given as part of the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), which is given in a series of four doses. The first dose is typically given at two months of age, with additional doses given at four months, six-18 months, and four-six years of age.
Immunization can also help to prevent other diseases, such as hepatitis A and B, influenza, human papillomavirus (HPV), and rotavirus. Vaccines are not 100% effective in preventing disease, but they can help to reduce the risk of infection and can help to reduce the severity of illness if a person does become infected. Immunization is an important tool in the fight against infectious diseases, and it can help to save lives.