Tehosterokotteet

Tehosterokotteet, also known as booster shots, are additional doses of a vaccine administered after the primary vaccination series. Their purpose is to restore or strengthen the immunity that may have decreased over time since the initial vaccination. When the body is first exposed to a vaccine, it develops an immune response and memory cells. However, the level of protection can wane, leaving an individual more susceptible to the disease the vaccine targets. Tehosterokotteet re-expose the immune system to the antigen, prompting a renewed and often stronger immune response. This helps to maintain a high level of protection against infection or severe illness. The timing and necessity of tehosterokotteet vary depending on the specific vaccine, the individual's age and health status, and the prevalence of the disease in the community. Public health authorities recommend booster schedules based on scientific evidence and ongoing monitoring of vaccine effectiveness. Examples include boosters for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap), as well as boosters for certain viral infections like influenza and COVID-19. Receiving recommended tehosterokotteet is an important strategy for ensuring long-term immunity and reducing the burden of preventable diseases.