Edward Jenner was an English physician and scientist who pioneered the concept of vaccines, particularly for smallpox. His work laid the groundwork for modern immunology.
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Edward Jenner developed the first successful smallpox vaccine in 1796 using material from cowpox lesions.
Jenner's method involved inoculating individuals with cowpox to confer immunity to smallpox.
He is often referred to as the 'Father of Immunology' because his work led to the development of vaccines for various diseases.
Jenner's experiments demonstrated that exposure to a less virulent pathogen could provide protection against a more deadly one, a principle known as cross-immunity.
The term 'vaccine' itself is derived from 'Variolae vaccinae' (smallpox of the cow), which Jenner used in his research.
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Related terms
Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.