Diseases eradicated thanks to vaccines

It is precisely thanks to the systematic vaccinations of children and adolescents that many diseases that were previously common, such as measles, rubella or polio, have been practically eradicated, with a reduction in their incidence in two decades of practically 90%.

The goal of administering a vaccine is to be able to make antibodies so that, in case of exposure, our body reacts quickly thanks to the defenses. In this way, the risk of suffering from the disease is reduced and, in case of suffering from it, the infection is usually moderate. If we don't get vaccinated we expose ourselves to reappearance of disease outbreaks almost eradicated in our country. We could mention recent cases of measles, whooping cough, diphtheria or meningitis.

While it is true that by being vaccinated we can have a reaction to the vaccine, we assume these risks in exchange for your benefit. The effects of the vaccine are generally moderate and short-lived. The usual symptoms are mild pain in the inoculation area, redness, inflammation and, on occasions, a flu-like picture may appear with joint pain and fever tenths.

These are the 10 diseases that have almost been eradicated thanks to vaccines!

Diphtheria

It is a disease contagious respiratory caused by the diphtheria bacillus. It can affect other organs such as the heart and brain. The Spanish Association of Pediatrics recommends the vaccination of all children against it through DTPa, an inactivated vaccine that contains the toxin made by the bacillus against which we make antibodies. Currently diphtheria is a practically eradicated disease, exceptional in Europe whose detected outbreaks have been due to the lack of previous vaccination.

Tetanus

It is a serious disease caused by the toxin of the clostridium bacteria whose origin is usually a contaminated continuity solution in the skin (wound, erosion, burn…). Affects the nervous system central, causes muscle stiffness and spasms with difficulty in breathing and swallowing. It poses a risk since it can cause death in 1 out of 10 cases. In disadvantaged countries, it is a cause of mortality of mothers and newborns after childbirth. This disease is eradicated in Spain, the cases detected are by no.

Whooping cough

Infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis that makes its debut as a catarrhal picture and evolves to persistent cough for several weeks. It causes coughing spells that alter the quality of sleep. Vaccination of all children against pertussis (DTaP vaccine) and of adults who are in regular contact with young children is recommended. Have been described cases of vaccinated children who have developed the disease.

Poliomyelitis

Is a highly contagious viral disease. It can cause from a influenza table to an affectation of nervous system, leading to permanent paralysis of the legs or other muscles. Vaccination of all children against polio (poliovirus) through the VPI vaccine is recommended. Vaccination is also recommended if you are going to travel to areas where polio cases can still occur or have not been completely eradicated, such as those countries where it is inadequate (Afghanistan or Pakistan) it may be convenient to receive a new booster dose. Currently not eradicated in

Measles

Is a highly contagious viral disease what produces high fever with a generalized rash, irritating cough and conjunctivitis. It can evolve affecting the ears, lungs or central nervous system.