Immunisation is an incredibly important defence in the global health landscape, a simple yet profoundly effective tool in the fight against infectious diseases.
As we approach World Immunisation Week, held from April 24th to 30th, it’s a good moment to reflect on why immunisation is so crucial, not just for individual health, but for the wellbeing of communities worldwide.
This blog post aims to shed light on the importance of immunisation, dispel common myths, and illustrate how LFA First Response contributes to this global effort.
The science and impact of immunisation
At its core, immunisation is a method of providing protection against contagious diseases. It works by stimulating the body’s immune system to recognise and fight pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, without causing the disease itself.
A step-by-step of how vaccines work
- Introduction of antigens: Vaccines introduce a harmless part of the virus or bacteria (antigen) into the body, which does not cause the disease but is enough to trigger an immune response. In some cases, vaccines use a weakened or inactivated form of the pathogen.
- Immune system activation: Upon detecting the antigen, the body’s immune system treats it as a foreign invader, similar to how it would respond to the actual pathogen. This activation involves various immune cells, including macrophages, B cells, and T cells.
- Production of antibodies: B cells, a type of white blood cell, respond by producing antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that specifically target and neutralise the pathogen introduced by the vaccine. This process may take days or weeks.
- Development of memory cells: Alongside the immediate response, the body creates memory T cells and memory B cells. These cells remember the specific antigen introduced by the vaccine and remain in the body for years, sometimes even for a lifetime.
- Rapid response on re-exposure: If the person is later exposed to the actual disease-causing pathogen, the immune system is prepared to respond much more rapidly and effectively. The memory cells recognise the pathogen and initiate a swift response, deploying antibodies to fight off the infection before it can cause serious illness.
- Achievement of immunity: As a result of this process, the individual gains immunity to the disease. This means they are either completely protected from getting the disease in the future or, if they do get infected, they are likely to experience a much milder form of the illness.*
*Vaccines are highly effective at providing immunity against various infectious diseases, but they do not guarantee complete immunity for every individual. Factors such as variability in individual immune responses, waning immunity over time, vaccine efficacy rates, and the emergence of new strains can affect overall vaccine effectiveness.
Proven effectiveness of vaccines
This vaccination process not only protects the vaccinated individual but also contributes to the broader concept of herd immunity, reducing the spread of diseases within the community. This is why immunicasation is so important on a wider scale.
The impact of immunisation is undeniable. It has led to the eradication of smallpox, a monumental achievement in public health, and has brought us to the brink of eradicating polio. Additionally, immunisation prevents an estimated 2-3 million deaths each year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), and measles.
In the era of COVID-19, the role of vaccines in saving lives and restoring normalcy has never been more important.
Tackling the challenges
Despite the clear benefits, immunisation efforts face several hurdles. Misinformation about vaccines is widespread, fuelled by myths and misconceptions that lead to vaccine hesitancy. Some communities also struggle with accessing reliable immunisation services, either due to geographical isolation, socio-economic factors, or healthcare system limitations.
Additionally, enhancing vaccine accessibility globally remains a critical goal. This includes logistical solutions to reach remote areas, financial strategies to ensure vaccines are affordable for all socio-economic groups, and improvements within healthcare systems to support efficient vaccine delivery.
Healthcare professionals are key to this effort. It’s important that we provide them with the necessary resources, including training and medical supplies, to administer vaccines effectively.
Addressing these challenges requires a global effort to provide accurate information and improve vaccine accessibility. Education plays a critical role in debunking myths and building trust in vaccines.
LFA First Response’s role in supporting immunisation
LFA First Response is committed to supporting healthcare professionals in their immunisation efforts. We understand the importance of having access to high-quality medical supplies to ensure vaccines are stored, handled, and administered under optimal conditions. Our range of products, from syringes and needles to medical fridges, is designed to meet the rigorous demands of immunisation campaigns.
World Immunisation Week: April 24 – 30 2024
World Immunisation Week serves as a global call to action for everyone to play a part in promoting immunisation. This year’s theme emphasises global solidarity and shared responsibility in protecting health through vaccines. It’s an opportunity to advocate for increased investment in vaccines, support for healthcare workers, and initiatives that aim to make vaccines accessible to all.
Everyone has a role to play, from healthcare professionals advocating for and administering vaccines, to individuals getting vaccinated and encouraging others to do the same. Supporting organisations that work to improve vaccine access and education is another way to contribute to this global effort.
Strengthening community health through immunisation
Immunisation is a cornerstone of public health, a shield that protects individuals and communities from infectious diseases. As we approach World Immunisation Week, let’s remember the importance of vaccines in saving lives and the collective effort required to overcome the challenges that hinder immunisation campaigns.
LFA First Response remains dedicated to supporting healthcare professionals with quality medical supplies and resources, ensuring that together, we can continue to advance immunisation efforts and safeguard public health. Contact us if you have any queries about our range of medical supplies or for any further information.
We encourage everyone to support immunisation efforts in their communities. Whether by getting vaccinated, spreading accurate information, or supporting healthcare professionals and public health initiatives, your actions make a difference. Together, we can achieve a healthier world for all.
