vaccine
/ˈvæk.siːn/A preparation that is administered to stimulate the body's immune response against a specific infectious agent, typically containing an inactivated or weakened form of the pathogen or one of its proteins.
The COVID-19 vaccine was developed to protect people from the virus.
The vaccine helps the immune system recognize and fight the virus.
Children are often vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella.
This prevents them from getting these diseases.
Vaccines can be made from weakened or killed pathogens, or from parts of the pathogen like proteins.
A substance that stimulates the production of antibodies and provides immunity against one or several diseases.
The flu vaccine is recommended annually to protect against seasonal influenza strains.
This helps prevent people from getting the flu.
Vaccines are a key tool in preventive medicine.
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💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
In everyday language, 'vaccine' often refers to the substance itself, while 'vaccination' refers to the act of receiving it.
⚡Gold Rule
Medical Context
In medical contexts, 'vaccine' specifically refers to the preparation, while 'vaccination' refers to the process.
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'vaccinus' (pertaining to cows), from 'vacca' (cow), because the first vaccine was derived from cowpox.
📝Usage Notes
The term 'vaccine' is often used interchangeably with 'vaccination' (the act of administering a vaccine).