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How do vaccines prevent disease? (A) Vaccines stop antigens triggering an immune response - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 11 - 2005 - Paper 1
Question 11
How do vaccines prevent disease? (A) Vaccines stop antigens triggering an immune response. (B) Vaccines stimulate the production of specific antibodies. (C) Vacci... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:How do vaccines prevent disease? (A) Vaccines stop antigens triggering an immune response - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 11 - 2005 - Paper 1
Step 1
B) Vaccines stimulate the production of specific antibodies.
Answer
Vaccines function primarily by stimulating the immune system to produce specific antibodies against pathogens. When a vaccine is introduced into the body, it contains antigens derived from the infectious agent. These antigens are recognized by the immune system, prompting it to respond by creating specific antibodies that can recognize and neutralize the actual pathogen if it is encountered in the future. This mechanism not only facilitates immediate protection but also establishes immunological memory allowing for a quicker and more efficient response to future infections.