The Discovery and Life-Saving Importance of Vaccines

Throughout history, humanity has developed numerous methods to combat deadly diseases. However, one of the greatest medical breakthroughs—vaccines—has controlled epidemics and saved millions of lives. But how were vaccines discovered, and why are they so crucial today?

The Discovery of Vaccines: From Smallpox to Modern Immunization

The history of vaccines dates back to the 18th century, when smallpox posed a significant threat worldwide.¹ In 1796, English physician Edward Jenner noticed that milkmaids who had previously contracted cowpox did not develop smallpox.¹

Building on this observation, he inoculated an eight-year-old boy with cowpox and found that the child developed immunity to smallpox. This revolutionary experiment laid the foundation for modern vaccination.¹

In the 19th century, Louis Pasteur advanced vaccine development by creating immunizations for rabies, anthrax, and chicken cholera.¹ His groundbreaking work on germ theory helped establish the scientific basis for vaccines.¹

By the 20th and 21st centuries, researchers had developed vaccines for diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, HPV, and COVID-19, demonstrating the pivotal role of immunization in global health.¹

Vaccines and immunization

Immunization is a global health success story, saving millions of lives every year.² Vaccines reduce the risk of disease by working with your body’s natural defenses to build immunity. When you get a vaccine, your immune system responds.

Today, vaccines protect against more than 20 life-threatening diseases, allowing people of all ages to live longer and healthier lives.

Immunization currently prevents 3.5 million to 5 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza, and measles.²

Immunization is key to primary health care, an indisputable human right, and one of the best health investments money can buy.²

Vaccines are also critical to the prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks. They underpin global health security and are a vital tool in the battle against antimicrobial resistance.²

Vaccines Safeguard Our Future

Vaccines are not just a medical advancement; they are a cornerstone of publichealth. Thanks to the relentless efforts of scientists and healthcare professionals,many diseases that were once deadly are now entirely preventable.

By embracing vaccination, we protect ourselves and future generations, ensuring ahealthier and safer world.