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I'm not an expert, but from what I can gather, vaccinations are used for both virus' and pathogenic bacteria (harmful bacteria).
Vaccines contain a section/segment of the virus or bacteria (for example a flagella) to infect the body. The body then produces memory cells so that the body has an immunity against the virus or bacteria (note that this immunity may not last a lifetime).
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Are there vaccines against parasites?
Vaccines against parasites are limited compared to vaccines against viruses and bacteria. Some examples include vaccines against malaria, such as Mosquirix. Research is ongoing to develop more vaccines against parasitic infections like hookworms and schistosomiasis.
What is the role that microorganisms play in vaccine production?
Microorganisms are used in vaccine production to grow the viruses or bacteria that will be used as the basis for the vaccine. They are also used in the process of creating antigens or proteins that mimic the pathogens in order to stimulate an immune response. Additionally, microorganisms are sometimes used to test the safety and efficacy of vaccines during the production process.
Are the microbes that are injected in a vaccination dead or alive?
They can be either. Some vaccines are made with dead viruses or particles of viruses and other vaccines are made with attenuated (weakened) viruses that are not able to make an otherwise healthy person sick. In 2009 the swine flu vaccine approved for use in the US was prepared both ways, the nasal flu vaccine was made from attenuated viruses and the shots were made with dead viruses.
Can antigenic proteins from certain pathogen be used for vaccines?
Yes, antigenic proteins from specific pathogens can be used to develop vaccines. These proteins can stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells that can recognize and protect against future encounters with the pathogen, thereby providing immunity.
What is a dead or altered viruses or bacteria that are used to stimulate the body to be on alert are called?
Dead or altered viruses or bacteria that are used to stimulate the body's immune response are called vaccines. Vaccines contain weakened or inactivated forms of the pathogen, or certain proteins or subunits of the pathogen, to trigger an immune response without causing the disease. This allows the body to recognize and fight the pathogen more effectively if encountered in the future.
