Vaccines

Vaccines help protect you from serious illnesses by giving your immune system a little “practice.” They contain a small, safe dose that mimics an infection, so your body learns how to recognize and fight it. Over time, your immune system builds up defenses—called antibodies—so if you’re ever exposed to the real thing, your body is ready to fight it off. Thanks to vaccines, we’ve been able to greatly reduce diseases like smallpox, polio, and measles. Depending on the illness, different vaccines may be needed at different times to keep you protected.