What is an adjuvant in the context of vaccines?

An adjuvant is a substance included in some vaccines to enhance the body's immune response to the vaccine's antigen. By using an adjuvant, the vaccine can produce a stronger and longer-lasting immunity. This is particularly important for vaccines that contain inactivated pathogens or subunit vaccines, where the immune response may not be strong enough without additional help. Adjuvants work by stimulating the immune system, prompting it to react more vigorously to the antigen, and can lead to improved vaccine effectiveness.

In the context of vaccine formulation, adjuvants play a crucial role in ensuring that even low doses of antigens can be effective, which can reduce the amount of active ingredient needed per dose and increase vaccine accessibility. Examples of commonly used adjuvants include aluminum salts and oil-in-water emulsions, among others. These components can help create a more robust immune memory, contributing to the prevention of diseases.