Results from our content library
AI-Powered Search
Sign in to search for any topic in our content library — get answers, related past year questions, and practice MCQs on the topic.
Sign in to searchBIOLOGY
PRERNA FOR IAS
VACCINE TYPES
1. Live Attenuated Vaccine
A live attenuated vaccine is prepared from a weakened (attenuated) form of a living pathogen that has lost its ability to cause disease in healthy individuals. Because the organism remains alive but weakened, it closely mimics a natural infection and produces a strong, long-lasting immune response with immune memory. Usually, only one or two doses are required for effective protection. Examples include the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine, BCG vaccine for tuberculosis, and Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV). These vaccines are generally not recommended for severely immunocompromised individuals because they contain live microorganisms.
2. Inactivated (Killed) Vaccine
An inactivated (killed) vaccine contains pathogens that have been completely killed using heat or chemicals, making them incapable of causing disease. Although they cannot multiply inside the body, they still stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies. These vaccines are very safe and stable and can be administered to people with weakened immune systems. However, because the immune response is weaker than with live vaccines, booster doses are often required to maintain long-term protection. Common examples include the Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), Rabies vaccine, and Hepatitis A vaccine.
3. Subunit/Recombinant Vaccine
A subunit or recombinant vaccine contains only specific parts of a pathogen, such as purified proteins or antigens, rather than the entire microorganism. These antigens are often produced using recombinant DNA technology, making the vaccine highly safe and effective. Since only essential components are included, the risk of side effects is lower than with whole-pathogen vaccines. However, booster doses or adjuvants may be required to strengthen immunity. Examples include the Hepatitis B vaccine, which contains recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen, and the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which protects against cervical and other HPV-related cancers.
4. Toxoid Vaccine
Sign up free to read the full article
Free accounts include 5 articles every month across current affairs, state notes, subject notes and more — upgrade anytime for unlimited access.
Learn about six major vaccine types: live attenuated, inactivated, subunit, toxoid, mRNA, and viral vector vaccines with real-world examples and immunity mechanisms.
Keywords