Attenuation

Definition

Attenuation is the process of reducing the virulence or severity of a virus. This makes the virus less capable of causing disease but still able to trigger an immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Attenuated viruses are often used in vaccines to stimulate an immune response without causing serious illness.
2. The attenuation process can be achieved through various methods, including passage through different host species or genetic modification.
3. Attenuated vaccines typically provide long-lasting immunity with fewer doses compared to inactivated vaccines.
4. While attenuated viruses are generally safe, they may not be suitable for individuals with weakened immune systems.
5. Examples of diseases for which attenuated vaccines are used include measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR vaccine).

Review Questions

• What is attenuation and how does it relate to viral vaccines?
• What are some methods used to achieve virus attenuation?
• Why might attenuated vaccines be unsuitable for immunocompromised individuals?

Related terms

Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity or ability of a microorganism to cause disease.

Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.

Inactivated Vaccine: A type of vaccine made from a virus that has been killed and cannot cause disease.