Live vaccine

Live Vaccine

A Live Vaccine is a type of vaccine that contains a version of the living virus or bacteria that has been weakened (attenuated) in the lab so it can’t cause disease in people. Live vaccines are used to protect against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, smallpox, chickenpox, and rotavirus.

History

The concept of live vaccines dates back to the late 18th century when Edward Jenner discovered that milkmaids who had contracted cowpox did not get smallpox. He developed the first live vaccine by injecting people with cowpox to protect them from smallpox.

Types of Live Vaccines

There are two types of live vaccines: oral and injectable. Oral vaccines are given by mouth, while injectable vaccines are given through a needle.

Oral Vaccines

Oral vaccines include the rotavirus vaccine, oral polio vaccine, and typhoid vaccine. These vaccines are easy to administer and often provide long-lasting immunity.

Injectable Vaccines

Injectable vaccines include the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella), varicella vaccine (chickenpox), and yellow fever vaccine. These vaccines are administered by a healthcare professional and often require a booster shot for continued immunity.

Benefits and Risks

Live vaccines can provide long-lasting immunity with just one or two doses. They are particularly effective in preventing viral diseases. However, because they contain a small amount of the live virus, they may not be suitable for people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions.

See Also

• Vaccine
• Virus
• Bacteria
• Edward Jenner
• Smallpox
• Chickenpox
• Rotavirus
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella

Live vaccine Resources
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