Vaccination 101 Immunity identikit
Think of pathogens (disease-causing organisms, like viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites) as invaders. They sneak into the body, where they cause damage, use resources, and make us ill. The immune system is the body’s defence force - it detects the invaders and mounts an attack to fight and eradicate them. In the process, antibodies are created with a detailed ‘identikit’ of the intruder so that, if it comes along again, it will be recognised and can be combated and, hopefully, defeated. Most pathogens are mild and can be easily overcome; others are so powerful and multiply so rapidly that they cannot be defeated without serious damage to the body, or even death. Fortunately, we have vaccines for many of these nasties. A vaccine is an altered form of the pathogen from which scientists have removed the disease-causing aspect. This ‘deactivated’ pathogen is introduced into the body, usually via injection, but sometimes orally or nasally. Essentially, it shows the immune army the ‘identikit’ without the risk of serious illness, which allows the body to prepare a strong defence for when the real thing comes along. Some vaccinations don’t create complete immunity, and it’s still possible to get sick, but then the infection usually isn’t as severe. Most vaccines that we give to our pets, if administered correctly and regularly, provide excellent protection against some very serious contagious illnesses. It’s important to know that this immunity is not instant. As with any defence system, it takes a little while to develop the right protection. It also does not last forever, so regular reminders (booster
vaccinations) are needed, particularly in young animals. Once is not enough for full protection – unless a vaccination programme is followed, the protection is not complete. That’s why it is so important to take your pet for their scheduled shots.
Getting the essentials
So, you’re on track with all their jabs…but what are they actually for? Several vaccines are considered essential as they protect against serious, highly contagious diseases - these are called core vaccines and they are the ones most dogs and cats receive. The most important one is against rabies, a deadly disease which can be transmitted to humans and animals. In fact, vaccination is compulsory, under the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1985), because it protects everyone. South African state veterinarian, Dr Alicia Cloete, who specialises in animal disease control at the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD) advises that puppies and
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kittens should receive their first rabies vaccine by 12 weeks, followed by a booster within 12 months, but at least one month after the first vaccine. Thereafter, booster vaccinations every three years are required (or annually in high-risk settings). If your pet was vaccinated earlier than 12 weeks, they will need an extra vaccination. If they were not vaccinated at 12 weeks or you don’t know their history, you can vaccinate them at any time, and follow this up with a booster between one and 12 months afterwards, and then follow the annual, or three-yearly schedule, as mentioned.
NOVEMBER 2021 | PETPRINTS
