27. Outline advantages and disadvantages of vaccination.

Advantages of vaccination: Most healthcare professionals believe that vaccinations are very effective. There is a widespread belief that vaccinations are responsible for the vast decline in many of our infectious and childhood illnesses. In comparison to the risks of the illnesses, it is commonly felt that vaccines are relatively harmless and pose very little risk.  Disadvantages of vaccination: Healthcare professionals against vaccinations have presented various arguments against vaccinations. They include the following:

• Vaccines damage the natural immune system. There are benefits from having an illness like chickenpox, measles mumps or rubella in that there is lifelong immunity following infection.

• Diseases declined before the vaccinations. The diseases of the 19th century in our society, that had high fatality rates, were smallpox, measles, tuberculosis, diphtheria. As living conditions and hygiene have improved, many of the illnesses occur not so often.

• There are harmful chemicals in the vaccine that some children might be sensitive to.

• Common childhood vaccinations may cause rare yet serious reactions including anaphylactic shock, paralysis, and sudden death.

• Vaccines can trigger auto-immune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and other disorders. 

• Vaccines can cause brain inflammation (encephalopathy), which can lead to death.

28. Develop some general tips to stop the spread of the infectious diseases.

• Wash your hands often. This is especially important before and after preparing food, before eating and after using the toilet.

• Get vaccinated. Immunization can drastically reduce your chances of contracting many diseases.

• Use antibiotics sensibly. Take antibiotics only when prescribed. Unless otherwise directed, or unless you are allergic to them, take all prescribed doses of your antibiotic, even if you begin to feel better before you have completed the medication.

• Stay at home if you have signs and symptoms of an infection. Don't go to work or class if you're vomiting, have diarrhea or are running a fever.

• Be smart about food preparation. Keep counters and other kitchen surfaces clean when preparing meals. In addition, promptly refrigerate leftovers. Don't let cooked foods remain at room temperature for an extended period of time.

• Disinfect the 'hot zones' at home. These include the kitchen and bathroom — two rooms that can have a high concentration of bacteria and other infectious agents.

• Practice safe sex. Use condoms. Get tested for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and have your partner get tested— or, abstain altogether.

• Don't share personal items. Use your own toothbrush, comb or razor blade.

• Travel wisely. Don't fly when you're ill. With so many people confined to such a small area, you may infect other passengers in the plane. And your trip won't be comfortable, either. Depending on where your travels take you, talk to your doctor about any special immunizations you may need. .

With a little common sense and the proper precautions, you can avoid infectious diseases and avoid spreading them.

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