As children, most people were vaccinated against common illnesses such as mumps, measles, and whopping cough. Before these therapies were developed, many were susceptible to contracting these diseases and spreading them to others. In Vaccines, learn how early vaccines were discovered, how greater understanding of the immune system and antibodies taught scientists why these treatments work, and how that knowledge assists in the development of new preventative measures. This highly readable narrative describes international efforts to eradicate diseases and to prevent the spread of new forms of viral diseases. In addition, coverage includes the history of vaccines, from the discovery of disease microbes and the early experiments by Louis Pasteur to current technological research into ones that prevent cancer, and a balanced discussion of the controversies that have arisen about the safety of certain vaccines.