By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Summarize the basics of vaccinology
- Define the clinical steps necessary for the development of a vaccine
- Describe the vaccines that remain to be implemented
- Discuss ways to improve immunization coverage
- Explain the future challenges of vaccinology
Description
Vaccines are among the most effective public health interventions currently available. Smallpox has been eradicated and poliomyelitis has almost disappeared worldwide thanks to global vaccination campaigns. Most viral and bacterial infections that traditionally affected children have been greatly reduced thanks to national immunization programs in developed countries.
Combined with antibiotics and clean water, vaccines have increased life expectancy in high- and low-income countries by eliminating many diseases that have killed millions. Vaccines are estimated to have averted around 25 million deaths over 10 years from 2010 to 2020, which equates to five lives saved per minute. In terms of cost-effectiveness, it is estimated that $1 invested in vaccination results in a saving of $10 to $44 in…
