Immunizations for children are crucial to help equip them with strong immunity and antibodies. However, vaccinations are also necessary for adults.
Vaccinations in immunization programs aim to develop antibodies against specific microorganisms. Vaccines contain antigens, which are weakened or killed parts of viruses or bacteria. The presence of antigens in the body triggers an immune response to recognize them. The body then produces specific antibodies to fight them.
The immune system then develops memory cells, so that when the body is infected with a microorganism similar to the antigen previously vaccinated, the body's response is already faster and more trained. With this response, even if infected, the body will experience symptoms that tend to be milder than if it were not vaccinated.
Causes of pneumonia
Pneumonia can be caused by infections with various microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. In children, pneumonia is more often caused by viral infections. In adults, bacterial infections are more common.
Pneumonia prevention
Pneumonia is often caused by infection. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain personal and environmental hygiene to minimize the risk of exposure to various microorganisms that can trigger infections and even pneumonia.
Furthermore, the immune system must be well-maintained to fight off various microorganisms that enter the body. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by consuming a balanced diet and exercising regularly is crucial.
Vaccination also plays a crucial role in helping prevent pneumonia. Even if infected, the risk of developing severe symptoms should be lower. It's crucial to complete basic immunizations for children and vaccinations for adults.
Pneumonia vaccination
Some microorganisms that can trigger pneumonia can be fought with antibodies formed from the vaccination process.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine
This vaccination helps to protect against the bacteria Haemophilus influenzae type b which can cause pneumonia, especially in children.
Influenza vaccine
This vaccination is often called the flu shot. The influenza virus is a fairly common type of virus and can cause pneumonia if not properly treated. Because this virus mutates frequently, boosters are necessary annually for optimal protection.
COVID-19 vaccine
One type of virus that can cause severe symptoms, including pneumonia, is SARS-CoV-2. Therefore, vaccination is crucial to prevent it, and even if infected, symptoms tend to be milder.
Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV)
The PCV13 vaccine can be given to children and adults because it helps fight Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. Meanwhile, the PPSV 23 vaccine protects against 23 types of S. pneumoniae bacteria. This vaccine can be given to those aged 65 and over. This type of bacteria is one of the most common causes of lung infections or pneumonia.
Providing children with complete basic immunizations according to recommendations is crucial for maintaining their immunity. Furthermore, it's important to consider age-appropriate boosters. Not only children, but adults also need vaccinations to help protect the body from various microorganisms, including those that can trigger pneumonia.
Vaccination can help prevent infection if you have the appropriate immune system and antibodies to fight the microorganism. Furthermore, even if you do become infected, your symptoms tend to be milder.
Written by Dr. Valda Garcia Reviewed by Dr. Ernest Eugene
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