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vaccine |
Also found in: Dictionary/thesaurus, Medical, Wikipedia, Hutchinson | 0.02 sec. |
vaccinePreparation containing either killed or weakened live microorganisms or their toxins, introduced by mouth, by injection, or by nasal spray to stimulate production of antibodies against an infectious agent. This confers immunity to that agent, since the B lymphocytes remain sensitized to it and respond to later infection by producing more antibodies. The first vaccine, against smallpox, was introduced by Edward Jenner in 1798. Vaccines have been developed against diseases caused by bacteria (e.g., typhoid, whooping cough, tuberculosis) and by viruses (e.g., measles, influenza, rabies, poliomyelitis). Effectiveness varies, and a small percentage of people have adverse reactions. Those with immunodeficiency disorders should not receive live vaccines. vaccine Med 1. a suspension of dead, attenuated, or otherwise modified microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, or rickettsiae) for inoculation to produce immunity to a disease by stimulating the production of antibodies 2. (originally) a preparation of the virus of cowpox taken from infected cows and inoculated in humans to produce immunity to smallpox 3. of or relating to vaccination or vaccinia 4. Computing a piece of software designed to detect and remove computer viruses from a system vaccine [vak′sēn] (immunology) A suspension of killed or attenuated bacteria or viruses or fractions thereof, injected to produce active immunity. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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| Historically, vaccines have been particularly efficient and cost-effective. By piggybacking components of strains of avian-influenza vires onto an existing poultry vaccine, scientists have created experimental vaccines that can prevent bird flu in chickens, two studies show. As part of its avian influenza vaccine strategy, Chiron expects that it can manufacture avian influenza vaccines during the traditional break between seasonal influenza vaccine campaigns, finishing these activities in time for the seasonal influenza vaccine production to avoid interruption of the normal manufacturing cycle. |
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