Inactivated vaccines

Definition

Inactivated vaccines are vaccines created from viruses or bacteria that have been killed through physical or chemical processes. These vaccines cannot cause disease but still elicit an immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Inactivated vaccines require multiple doses to achieve and maintain immunity.
2. They are stable and do not require refrigeration, making them easier to transport and store.
3. These vaccines typically induce a weaker immune response compared to live attenuated vaccines.
4. Inactivated vaccines can be safely administered to individuals with compromised immune systems.
5. Examples of inactivated vaccines include the polio vaccine (IPV), the hepatitis A vaccine, and the rabies vaccine.

Review Questions

• What is a key difference between inactivated vaccines and live attenuated vaccines?
• Why might inactivated vaccines require multiple doses?
• Name at least two diseases that can be prevented using inactivated vaccines.

Related terms

Live Attenuated Vaccines: Vaccines made from live pathogens that have been weakened so they cannot cause serious disease.

Adjuvants: Substances added to some vaccines to enhance the immune response.

Herd Immunity: Resistance to the spread of contagious disease within a population due to a high proportion of individuals being immune.