Conclusion

Over the past 200 years, vaccinology has developed into a science which now uses cutting-edge research technologies in immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology and microbiology.

Since 1980, 14 new or improved vaccines have been added to the arsenal of those available, offering protection against hepatitis A and B, Hib infections, meningococcal type C vaccine and vaccine combinations in which Hib vaccine is added to diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough and polio vaccines and most recently, to hepatitis B vaccine.

Sir Kenneth Calman, former Chief Medical Officer, made a telling comment on the benefits that vaccines have brought to our lives: ‘200 years after Jenner’s first observations, we are seeing a new era beginning for vaccines. With the application of genetic manipulation techniques, better understanding of the processes of infection and immunity, and a widespread recognition that investment in disease prevention is one of the best uses of public money, we can expect ever more vaccines, and ever more diseases eradicated’.