Vaccines

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Vaccines help protect people from diseases. They contain "weakened" or "dead" germs, such as viruses or bacteria, which stimulate the body's immune system in a manner that can prevent us from getting sick with harmful pathogens. Here's the latest science news on vaccines.Vaccines

Latest about vaccines

older man wearing a blue surgical mask looks down at his arm, which bears a bandage as if he's just gotten an injection

Moderna says its RSV vaccine is 84% effective in older adults

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Moderna announced positive results from its late-stage RSV vaccine trial in older adults.

woman wearing glasses and a black kn95 mask prepares a syringe to deliver a flu shot

This year's flu shots are a 'very good match' to circulating strains, health officials say

By Nicoletta Lanese published

This year's flu shots match the circulating strains well, early data show.

illustration of the rsv virus where you can see the genetic material curled up inside

New RSV vaccine given in pregnancy protects newborns from illness, Pfizer says

By Nicoletta Lanese published

The drugmaker Pfizer announced positive trial results for its RSV vaccine designed to protect newborns.

sneeze, tissue

A Vaccine for the Common Cold May Be Possible

By Sara G. Miller last updated

A vaccine against the common cold may be possible, new research in mice and monkeys suggests.

Mother checking temperature of her sick son who has thermometer in his mouth

The flu (influenza): Causes, symptoms and treatment

By Rachael Rettner last updated

The flu (short for influenza) is a respiratory virus that affects the throat, nose, bronchi and, sometimes, the lungs.

a person getting a vaccine

Nearly 50% in US Believe in Medical Conspiracy Theories

By Rachael Rettner last updated

About half of Americans agree with at least one medical conspiracy theory, a new study suggests.

A man receiving a flu shot from a doctor

When should I get my flu shot?

By Rachael Rettner published

Fall has arrived, and with it the annual call to get your flu shot. But when's the best time to get the jab?

Here's a look at the science of flu shots. Shown here, a vial and syringe.

Flu shot facts and side effects

By Rachael Rettner, Nicoletta Lanese published

The seasonal flu shot is a yearly vaccine that protects against the flu, or influenza. Here's what you need to know about it.

An illustration of the influenza virus (giant blue sphere) surrounded by human antibodies (small y-shaped orange shapes).

Could we ever eradicate the flu?

By Isobel Whitcomb published

We have influenza vaccines, but is it possible to eradicate the flu?

A coronavirus particle binds to a human cell.

Coronavirus variants: Facts about omicron, delta and other COVID-19 mutants

By Rachael Rettner published

Here's a look at the science behind COVID-19 variants, such as omicron and delta, and which coronavirus mutants are the most concerning in different areas.

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