Herd immunity is a form of indirect protection from infectious diseases that occurs when a sufficient percentage of a population becomes immune, either through vaccination or previous infections, reducing the overall spread of the disease. This collective immunity is crucial in managing outbreaks and pandemics, as it can help shield those who are unvaccinated or more vulnerable, such as infants or individuals with compromised immune systems. By achieving herd immunity, communities can effectively lower the transmission rates of pathogens and protect public health.
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