Which action represents a primary preventive measure against infectious diseases?

Which action represents a primary preventive measure against infectious diseases?

• A. Screening for TB
• B. Immunizations
• C. Quarantine of cases
• D. Treatment of illness

Answer: (B)

Preventing disease before it starts is the idea behind primary prevention. Vaccinations (immunizations) train the body's immune system to recognize and fight pathogens so infection is prevented or greatly reduced in severity. This not only protects the individual but also contributes to herd immunity, protecting others who may not be vaccinated. Screening for TB is a way to detect disease early in people who don’t yet have noticeable symptoms, aiming to prevent complications and limit spread—this is secondary prevention. Quarantine helps prevent transmission by separating those who are infected from others, which is a public health control measure rather than preventing the initial illness. Treatment of illness occurs after disease has developed, so it does not prevent the disease from occurring in the first place.

Preventing disease before it starts is the idea behind primary prevention. Vaccinations (immunizations) train the body's immune system to recognize and fight pathogens so infection is prevented or greatly reduced in severity. This not only protects the individual but also contributes to herd immunity, protecting others who may not be vaccinated.

Screening for TB is a way to detect disease early in people who don’t yet have noticeable symptoms, aiming to prevent complications and limit spread—this is secondary prevention. Quarantine helps prevent transmission by separating those who are infected from others, which is a public health control measure rather than preventing the initial illness. Treatment of illness occurs after disease has developed, so it does not prevent the disease from occurring in the first place.