Active Immunization

Active immunization is a method of inducing immunity in an individual by introducing a vaccine into their body. The vaccine contains weakened or killed forms of the pathogen or its components, which stimulates the immune system to produce an immune response. The vaccine against polio viruses is an example of active immunization.

The Polio Vaccine

The polio vaccine is a preventive measure used to protect individuals from poliovirus infection, which can cause poliomyelitis, a highly infectious disease that affects the nervous system. There are two types of polio vaccines: the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) and the oral polio vaccine (OPV).

IPV - Inactivated Polio Vaccine

The IPV is an injectable vaccine that contains inactivated (killed) poliovirus. When administered, it stimulates the immune system to produce an immune response against the virus. This response includes the production of poliovirus-specific antibodies and the activation of immune cells. These immune responses help protect the individual from future poliovirus infection.

OPV - Oral Polio Vaccine

The OPV is an oral vaccine that contains weakened (attenuated) poliovirus strains. When taken orally, the attenuated viruses replicate in the intestine, stimulating a strong immune response. This response results in the production of antibodies and activation of immune cells, providing protection against poliovirus infection.

Advantages of Active Immunization

Active immunization through vaccination offers several advantages:

1. Long-lasting protection: Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce memory cells. These cells "remember" the pathogen and can mount a rapid and effective response if re-exposed to the same pathogen in the future.

2. Herd immunity: Vaccination not only protects vaccinated individuals but also contributes to herd immunity. When a significant proportion of the population is immune to a particular infectious disease, it reduces the overall transmission of the pathogen and protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants or individuals with weakened immune systems.

3. Eradication of diseases: Active immunization has been instrumental in eradicating diseases such as smallpox and nearly eradicating others like polio. By vaccinating large populations, the transmission of the pathogen can be interrupted, leading to the elimination or eradication of the disease.

In conclusion, the polio vaccine is an example of active immunization. It utilizes the IPV or OPV to stimulate the immune system and induce a protective immune response against poliovirus infection. Active immunization through vaccination offers long-lasting protection, contributes to herd immunity, and has been successful in eradicating or controlling many infectious diseases.