What is the different between dead vaccines and live vaccines?

Dead vaccines, also known as inactivated vaccines, contain killed versions of the disease-causing virus or bacteria. These vaccines are not able to replicate or cause disease in the vaccinated individual. Live vaccines, on the other hand, contain weakened or attenuated forms of the virus or bacteria. These vaccines are able to replicate in the body, but they are weakened so that they do not cause disease in healthy individuals. Live vaccines typically provide longer-lasting immunity compared to dead vaccines.

Dead Vaccines

- Definition: Vaccines that contain inactivated (killed) or fragmented microorganisms (bacteria or viruses).
- Mechanism of action: Trigger an immune response by stimulating the production of antibodies without causing infection.
- Examples: Polio vaccine, tetanus vaccine, influenza vaccine (inactivated)
- Pros:
- Safe for people with weakened immune systems
- Typically less likely to cause side effects
- Cons:
- May require multiple doses to achieve immunity
- May not provide as long-lasting immunity as live vaccines

Live Vaccines

- Definition: Vaccines that contain live, attenuated (weakened) microorganisms.
- Mechanism of action: Mimic a natural infection, leading to the development of immunity and antibody production.
- Examples: Measles vaccine, mumps vaccine, rubella vaccine, chickenpox vaccine
- Pros:
- Typically provide stronger and longer-lasting immunity
- May require fewer doses
- Cons:
- Can cause mild symptoms of infection
- Not suitable for people with weakened immune systems or pregnant women
- May shed the virus, potentially infecting others