Introduction
Immunization
"Immunization is the process where by a person is made immune or resistant to an infection, typically by administration of vaccines".
Immunization is a proven tool for controlling and elimination life-resistant to an infectious disease.
The Expanded Program on Immunization(EPI)
The expanded program on immunization(EPI) was established in 1974 through a World Health Assembly resolution to build on the success of the global smallpox eradication programme, and to ensure that all children in all countries benefited from life-saving vaccines.
Objectives
The expanded program on immunization, the who's initiative to improve immunization coverage, focuses on the following four items:
- Standardizing immunization schedules
- Promoting safe infection technologies
- Improving the stocking and availability of vaccines
- Protecting vaccines potency through cold chain management
- To increase coverage of immunization for eligible children
- To reduce the incidence of immunizable diseases among children below five years of age
- Eradication of polio to maintain polio free status
- Elimination of measles
- Reduce Incidence of Hepatitis B
- Elimination of Neonatal Tetanus
- Maintain zero level of diphtheria
- Prevention of severe forms of TB (TB meningitis and Military TB)
- Reduce the incidence of whooping cough
- Reduce the incidence of Bacteria Meningitis due to haemophelus influenza
The Immune System
Immunity
Ability of an organism to recognize and defend itself against specific pathogens or antigens.
Immune Response
Involves production of antibodies and generation of specialized lymphocytes against specific antigens.
Antigen
Molecules from a pathogen or foreign organism that provoke a specific immune response.
Types of immunity
- Innate or natural immunity
- Acquired immunity
It may be:
- Naturally
- Artificially
Types of Acquired Immunity
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