Immunization Related Terms
- B -
B Cells
Small white blood cells that help the body defend itself against infection. These cells are produced in bone marrow and develop into plasma cells which produce antibodies. Also known as B lymphocytes.
Bacteria
Tiny one-celled organisms present throughout the environment that require a microscope to be seen. While not all bacteria are harmful, some cause disease. Examples of bacterial disease include diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Haemophilus influenza and pneumococcus (pneumonia).
Bias
Flaws in the collection, analysis or interpretation of research data that lead to incorrect conclusions.
Biological Plausibility
A causal association (or relationship between two factors) is consistent with existing medical knowledge.
Bone Marrow
Soft tissue located within bones that produce all blood cells, including the ones that fight infection.
Booster Shots
Additional doses of a vaccine needed periodically to 'boost' the immune system. For example, the tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine which is recommended for adults every ten years.
Brachial Neuritis
Inflammation of nerves in the arm causing muscle weakness and pain.
Breakthrough Infection
Development of a disease despite a person's having responded to a vaccine.
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