Immunization

This refers to the targeted induction of immunity to a specific antigen by bringing the body's immune system into contact with this antigen (e.g. an attenuated pathogen), thereby triggering an immune response. Immunity can also result from the disease itself; this process is also called immunization.

In active immun ization, the body is induced to produce specific antibodies through contact with an immunogen without itself being harmed. In passive immunization , antibodies are supplied to the organism.

Another term for immunization is "sensitization". However, sensitization tends to emphasize the disease-causing aspect that leads, for example, to an allergic disease.

Hof H (2019). Vaccinations. In: Hof H, Schlüter D, Dörries R, eds Duale Reihe Medizinische Mikrobiologie. 7th, completely revised and expanded edition. Stuttgart: Thieme p 736-739