vaksinering

Vaksinering is the process of administering vaccines to stimulate the immune system to protect against infectious diseases. Vaccines expose the body to a safe form of a pathogen or its components, prompting the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells that provide protection on future encounters.

Vaccines are developed through research and tested in clinical trials (phases I–III) before regulatory authorities assess their safety and efficacy. After licensure, ongoing monitoring systems track adverse events and effectiveness. Serious side effects are rare, and benefits far exceed risks in most populations.

Most vaccines fall into categories such as live-attenuated, inactivated, subunit, toxoid, or newer platforms like messenger RNA and viral vectors. Vaccination schedules are organized by age and risk; countries design programs to maintain high coverage and ensure timely protection against diseases with epidemic potential.

Widespread vaccination can prevent disease outbreaks and, when coverage is high enough, provide herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated. This has led to the near-elimination of smallpox and substantial reductions in measles, polio, and other infections in many regions.

Equity, access, misinformation, and vaccine hesitancy remain challenges. Efforts focus on improving supply chains, education, and transparent safety communications to maximize protection at the population level.