Immunize: meaning, definitions and examples
💉
immunize
[ɪˈmjuːnʌɪz ]
Definition
healthcare
To make someone immune to a disease by administering a vaccine or through exposure to a disease.
Synonyms
inoculate, protect, vaccinate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| immunize |
Used in a general medical context when referring to the process of making someone resistant to infectious diseases, typically through a vaccine.
|
| vaccinate |
Primarily used in a medical context to refer specifically to the act of administering a vaccine to produce immunity against a particular disease.
|
| protect |
Used broadly in various contexts, not only medical. It can refer to safeguarding from any kind of harm, including diseases.
|
| inoculate |
Commonly used in a medical context, often specifically referring to the act of administering a vaccine to provide immunity against a disease.
|
Examples of usage
- Children are usually immunized against measles at a young age.
- It is important to immunize the elderly population against the flu.
- Travelers to certain countries may need to be immunized against specific diseases.
- The government aims to immunize a large percentage of the population to prevent outbreaks.
- Healthcare workers are often required to be immunized against certain infectious diseases.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'immunize' comes from the Latin 'immunis', meaning 'exempt' or 'free from burdens'.
- It was first used in the medical context in the late 19th century as vaccines began to be developed.
- The term reflects the body's ability to resist infections once it has been 'armed' by a vaccine.
Science
- Vaccines work by training the immune system to recognize and fight off specific pathogens.
- Herd immunity occurs when a large percentage of a community becomes immune, protecting those who can't be vaccinated.
- The development of vaccines in the 20th century has drastically reduced the incidence of diseases like polio and measles.
Pop Culture
- The 2010 documentary 'Vaxxed' sparked significant debate over vaccination and public health.
- TV shows like 'The Simpsons' have addressed immunization topics humorously, showcasing societal attitudes toward vaccines.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, the phrase 'immunization campaign' became a common part of everyday vocabulary.
History
- The first successful human vaccine was developed by Edward Jenner in 1796 to combat smallpox.
- Before vaccines, diseases like smallpox and tuberculosis caused widespread epidemics and high mortality rates.
- Public health initiatives in the 20th century, including widespread immunization programs, greatly lowered childhood mortality rates.
Psychology
- Fear of needles, known as trypanophobia, can prevent some individuals from getting vaccinated.
- Misunderstandings about vaccines often stem from misinformation, affecting people's willingness to immunize.
- Studies show social influences can significantly impact people's decisions about vaccinations, highlighting the importance of community trust.
Translations
Translations of the word "immunize" in other languages:
🇵🇹 imunizar
🇮🇳 टीकाकरण करना
🇩🇪 impfen
🇮🇩 imunisasi
🇺🇦 вакцинувати
🇵🇱 szczepić
🇯🇵 予防接種をする
🇫🇷 immuniser
🇪🇸 inmunizar
🇹🇷 aşılamak
🇰🇷 면역시키다
🇸🇦 تحصين
🇨🇿 očkovat
🇸🇰 očkovať
🇨🇳 免疫
🇸🇮 cepljenje
🇮🇸 bólusetja
🇰🇿 вакцинациялау
🇬🇪 იმუნიზაცია
🇦🇿 immunizasiya etmək
🇲🇽 inmunizar