What is a live attenuated vaccine?
Quick Answer
A live attenuated vaccine contains a weakened form of a virus or bacterium that can still stimulate immunity. It usually causes a strong, long-lasting immune response.
The Full Story
Live attenuated vaccines use a weakened pathogen that has been altered so it does not usually cause disease in healthy people. Because the immune system sees something very close to the real germ, these vaccines often produce broad and durable immunity. Classic examples include the measles, mumps, rubella, and yellow fever vaccines. They are not suitable for everyone, especially some people with weakened immune systems. The idea has been used in vaccines since the 20th century and remains important in immunology today.
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