What is the Difference Between Vaccination and Immunization?

05/15/2025 • Felipe Moraes

Vaccination and immunization are related but distinct processes. Here are the key differences between the two:

Vaccination: This is the process of introducing a vaccine into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease. It involves actually having the injection or taking an oral vaccine dose.
Immunization: This refers to the process by which a person becomes protected against a disease through vaccination. It is the process of both getting the vaccine and becoming immune to the disease after vaccination.

In summary, vaccination is the act of administering a vaccine, while immunization is the process of developing immunity against a disease as a result of vaccination. Vaccination leads to immunization, and both terms are crucial for protecting individuals and communities from various diseases.

Comparative Table: Vaccination vs Immunization

The following table highlights the differences between vaccination and immunization:

Term	Meaning	Process
Vaccination	The act of administering a vaccine to provide protection against a certain illness.	Involves injecting a suspension of attenuated or killed microorganisms.
Immunization	The process of both getting the vaccine and becoming immune to the disease after vaccination.	Involves the body producing an immune response in the same way it would after exposure to a disease, without the person getting the disease.

In summary:

Vaccination is the act of administering a vaccine to protect against a specific disease.
Immunization refers to the process of becoming immune to a disease after receiving a vaccine.

Vaccination is a single action, while immunization refers to the process that occurs after vaccination, during which the body develops immunity to the disease.