On Immunity

Overview

On Immunity: An Inoculation is a book by Eula Biss that explores the cultural and historical aspects of vaccination and immunity. Published in 2014, the book delves into the fears and myths surrounding vaccines, drawing connections between personal health decisions and broader societal implications.

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Cover of On Immunity: An Inoculation

Themes

On Immunity addresses several key themes, including the concept of herd immunity, the history of vaccination, and the role of public health in society. Biss examines how immunization is not just a personal choice but a communal responsibility, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals within a community.

Herd Immunity

Herd immunity is a central theme in the book, highlighting how the immunity of a population can protect those who are unable to be vaccinated, such as infants and individuals with compromised immune systems. Biss discusses how achieving herd immunity requires a high percentage of the population to be vaccinated, thus preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

Cultural Perceptions

Biss explores the cultural perceptions and misconceptions about vaccines, including the fear of vaccine side effects and the influence of anti-vaccine movements. She analyzes how these perceptions are shaped by historical events, media portrayals, and personal anecdotes.

Historical Context

The book provides a historical overview of vaccination, tracing its origins from the early practice of variolation to the development of modern vaccines. Biss discusses key figures in the history of vaccination, such as Edward Jenner, who pioneered the smallpox vaccine, and Louis Pasteur, who developed vaccines for rabies and anthrax.

Public Health and Policy

Biss examines the role of public health policy in promoting vaccination and protecting public health. She discusses the challenges faced by public health officials in combating misinformation and increasing vaccine uptake. The book also addresses the ethical considerations of mandatory vaccination policies and the balance between individual rights and community health.

Personal Narrative

Interwoven with the factual content, Biss includes personal narratives and reflections on her own experiences as a mother making vaccination decisions for her child. These narratives provide a human perspective on the complex issues surrounding vaccination and immunity.

Impact and Reception

On Immunity has been praised for its insightful analysis and engaging writing style. It has been recognized as an important contribution to the public discourse on vaccination, encouraging readers to consider the broader implications of their health choices.

Related pages

• Vaccination
• Herd immunity
• Public health
• Edward Jenner
• Louis Pasteur