Immunization and vaccination are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are actually two different processes. Immunization is a process by which a person’s immune system is stimulated to produce antibodies against a particular disease. This can be done by administering a vaccine, which is a preparation containing a weakened or killed form of a virus or bacteria, or by exposing the person to a weakened or dead form of the virus or bacteria. Vaccination, on the other hand, is the actual administration of the vaccine.
The primary purpose of immunization is to create immunity to a particular disease. A person who is immunized is protected from the disease, and if exposed to it, is unlikely to become ill. Vaccination, however, is intended to prevent the spread of a disease by preventing people from becoming infected in the first place. Vaccination also serves to reduce the severity of the disease in those who do become infected.
In summary, immunization is the process by which the immune system is stimulated to produce antibodies, while vaccination is the actual administration of a vaccine. Immunization creates immunity to a particular disease, while vaccination is intended to prevent the spread of a disease by preventing people from becoming infected in the first place.