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Introduction

Some infectious diseases are common and can occur

many times in the same person, others can only occur
once in a lifetime thanks to the immune system and it's
ability to remember the organism and prevent following
infections. To avoid an epidemic of a grave disease such
as polio, before the disease can be acquired, an
immunization can create a man-made "memory".

Active immunization
A person receives an injection (vaccine) that contains dead
or harmless living forms of an organism. The vaccine
stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies and
memorize the organism. If there is a later exposure to this
organism and subsequent infection, the antibodies will stop
the infection.

Passive immunization
Blood containing antibodies is taken from animals or
humans who have recently had an infection. Blood serum
is made that contains the antibodies, and then injected into
the person. The antibodies either attack an infection that is
present or provide short-term protection.

Genetically engineered viruses

Genetic engineering is a technique that alters or changes
the DNA of a plant or animal by inserting new genetic
information from another organism. After these organisms
replicate, vaccines and hormones are made that can help
fight disease.

Hepatitis B vaccine
The gene of the surface antigen of Hepatitis B virus is
implanted into the DNA of a single bacterium. The bacteria
produces viral antigens which are then implanted to
stimulate the immune system.