Rokotetyyppejä

Rokotetyyppejä refers to the different categories or kinds of vaccines available. Vaccines work by introducing a harmless form of a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, to the body's immune system. This exposure triggers an immune response, allowing the body to develop defenses against future infections.

Live-attenuated vaccines contain a weakened version of the live virus or bacteria. They are highly effective and usually provide long-lasting immunity with a single or two doses. Examples include the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine. However, they may not be suitable for individuals with weakened immune systems.

Inactivated vaccines are made from a killed version of the virus or bacteria. They do not replicate in the body and are therefore safer for those with compromised immune systems. However, they may require multiple doses or booster shots to provide adequate protection. Examples include the inactivated polio vaccine and some influenza vaccines.

Subunit, recombinant, polysaccharide, and conjugate vaccines use specific pieces of the pathogen, such as its proteins or sugars, to stimulate an immune response. This approach targets only the parts of the pathogen that trigger immunity, making them very safe. Examples include the hepatitis B vaccine and the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.

Toxoid vaccines are used for diseases caused by bacterial toxins. They contain inactivated toxins (toxoids) that trigger immunity against the harmful toxins produced by bacteria, rather than the bacteria themselves. Examples include the tetanus and diphtheria vaccines.

Nucleic acid vaccines, such as mRNA and DNA vaccines, are a newer technology. They deliver genetic instructions to cells, prompting them to produce a specific antigen from the pathogen, thereby triggering an immune response. The COVID-19 vaccines developed by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna are examples of mRNA vaccines.