What are inactivated vaccines?

Generally, inactivated vaccines are prepared by killing pathogens using physical or chemical methods. Common types include inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, inactivated hepatitis A vaccine, inactivated poliovirus vaccine, inactivated rabies vaccine, and inactivated influenza virus vaccine. Specific details are as follows:

1. Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine: Made from cultured SARS-CoV-2 virus that has been inactivated through specific processes, this vaccine stimulates the body to produce antibodies against the coronavirus. It has a high safety profile and is suitable for individuals aged 3 years and older without contraindications, effectively reducing the risk of severe illness and death.

2. Inactivated Hepatitis A Vaccine: Developed specifically against the hepatitis A virus, this vaccine prevents infection after administration. It provides long-lasting immunity, with protection lasting over 10 years. It is recommended for high-risk groups such as children and healthcare workers, especially in regions where hepatitis A is prevalent, helping to establish an effective immune barrier.

3. Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV): Used to prevent poliomyelitis. Compared to live attenuated vaccines, IPV carries no risk of vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis and offers superior safety. It is one of the essential vaccines in routine infant immunization programs and is often administered in combination with other vaccines.

4. Inactivated Rabies Vaccine: Prepared from inactivated rabies virus, it is primarily used for post-exposure prophylaxis after animal bites or scratches, and can also be used for pre-exposure prophylaxis in high-risk populations. It rapidly induces protective antibodies after vaccination, blocking rabies transmission, and serves as a key measure in rabies prevention.

5. Inactivated Influenza Vaccine: Developed based on the influenza virus strains circulating each year, its composition is adjusted annually according to prevalent strains. This vaccine effectively prevents infection from corresponding influenza subtypes and reduces influenza incidence. Annual vaccination is particularly recommended for high-risk groups such as the elderly, children, and patients with chronic diseases.

Inactivated vaccines must be administered according to established immunization schedules, with differences in dosage and interval between vaccines. Before vaccination, individuals should truthfully report their health status. After vaccination, local reactions should be monitored, the injection site should be kept clean and dry, and strenuous exercise should be avoided.