MP Board · Class 12 · Biology · Human Health and DiseasesDefine Vaccination and Immunization. How do they safeguard an individual against infectious diseases?

Vaccination is the process of introducing an inactivated, weakened pathogen or antigenic protein preparation into the body to stimulate the immune system. Immunization is the ultimate process through which the body develops immunity against a pathogen as a consequence of vaccination or natural exposure. Both processes work on the principle of immunological memory. Upon administration, the vaccine generates B and T-memory cells. When the pathogen attacks the body subsequently, these memory cells quickly recognize it and produce a massive, rapid immune response to neutralize the disease.