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Q:
How does a vaccine work?
A: When you receive a vaccine,
the specific defense of the immune
system is exposed to the antigens of the
pathogen you are to be protected against.
Memory T and B-cells
are produced so that your body can quickly recognize and fight against
the pathogen if it ever enters and attacks
your body. Basically, the vaccine simulates
exposure to the pathogen, by presenting a
harmless weakened version. In the same way that a fire drill gives
people a safe way to practice getting out of a dangerous situation,
the vaccine gives a safe way for the body to practice recognizing
and fighting the real pathogen right away
if the body is ever exposed to it.
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