Myths and facts about immunisation: breaking down misconceptions

Immunisation is one of the most effective ways to protect against infectious diseases. However, there are often various myths surrounding it that can lead to poor health decisions. Let's take a look at some of the most common myths and real facts to better understand immunisation:

Myth 1: "Vaccines cause autism."

Fact: This myth arose as a result of the publication of a study that was later found to be false and withdrawn from scientific circulation. Dozens of studies have confirmed the safety of vaccines, and none of them have found a link between vaccination and autism.

Myth 2: "Natural immunity is better than vaccine immunity."

Fact: Becoming immune to an infection can lead to serious complications and even death. Vaccines, on the other hand, provide immunity without the risk of developing the disease. In addition, vaccines are often more effective than natural immunity.

Myth 3: "Vaccines contain dangerous substances."

Fact: Many vaccines contain very small amounts of substances that may appear to be toxic, but are actually safe in these doses. These substances help increase the effectiveness of vaccines and provide long-term immunity.

Myth 4: "Vaccines are not needed because diseases have been virtually eliminated."

Fact: Although some diseases have become less common due to vaccination, they can still return if vaccination standards are compromised. Immunisation is important for maintaining herd immunity and protecting vulnerable populations.

Myth 5: "Vaccines contain microchips to control people."

Fact: This myth is absurd and has no scientific basis. No vaccine contains microchips to monitor people. Such claims are part of conspiracy theories that are not supported by scientific evidence. Vaccines are designed to protect against disease and have nothing to do with controlling people through microchips.

Myth 6: "Vaccines can lead to serious side effects."

Fact: Most side effects from vaccines are minimal and temporary, such as mild pain or redness at the injection site. Serious side effects are very rare, and vaccines undergo rigorous clinical trials before they are available for use.

Myth 7: "A child should receive all vaccines at once."

Fact: A vaccination schedule is recommended for optimal protection. Childhood vaccines are divided into multiple doses and are recommended to be given at specific stages of childhood to provide adequate protection and prevent negative interactions.

Myth 8: "Vaccines are not effective against new strains of viruses."

Fact: Although new variants of viruses can sometimes emerge, most vaccines are effective against these variants or at least reduce the severity of the disease. Scientists are constantly researching new variants of viruses and improving vaccines to match these variants.

Myth 9: "People with healthy immune systems do not need vaccination."

Fact: Even people with strong immune systems can get infectious diseases and pass them on to others. Vaccination helps to maintain immunity and protects not only the individual but also others.

Myth 10: "Vaccines cause infectious diseases."

Fact: Most vaccines contain killed or known antigens that cannot cause disease. Some vaccines may cause mild side effects, such as muscle aches or mild fever, but this does not mean they are sick.

These myths demonstrate the importance of critical thinking and getting information from reliable sources. Immunisation is a safe and effective way to protect against infectious diseases, and scientific evidence supports its importance to public health.