Immunisation is a widely accepted and successful preventive healthcare measure that has helped to reduce the spread of infectious diseases. However, immunisation also has several drawbacks or disadvantages that should be acknowledged.
The most significant disadvantage of immunisation is the potential for adverse reactions. Although the risk of serious adverse reactions is very low, some people may experience mild side effects, such as soreness, swelling, or redness at the injection site, fever, headache, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, or joint pain. In rare cases, more serious reactions, such as allergic reactions, can occur.
Another disadvantage of immunisation is that it can produce a false sense of security. Immunisation does not provide complete protection against infection and disease. It can reduce the risk, but it does not eliminate it entirely. As a result, people who are immunised may be less likely to take other preventative measures, such as hand-washing, to reduce their risk of infection.
In addition, immunisation can be expensive, and it may not be readily accessible to all people. In some areas, access to immunisation may be limited due to cost or availability. This can be especially problematic in developing countries, where access to immunisation may be more difficult.
Finally, immunisation can also be ineffective in some cases. Some people may not develop adequate immunity to a disease after immunisation, or their immunity may fade over time. This can lead to an increased risk of contracting the disease if they are exposed to it.
In conclusion, immunisation is a highly effective measure for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. However, it is important to be aware of its potential drawbacks, including the risk of adverse reactions, the potential for a false sense of security, cost or availability, and the possibility of decreased effectiveness.