immunization
n. C / Un. the process of making a person or animal immune to a disease, usually by giving them a vaccine. It helps the body learn how to fight off specific germs.
n. the process by which an individual's immune system becomes fortified against an infectious agent, typically through the administration of a vaccine. Often used interchangeably with vaccination in general contexts, though it technically refers to the physiological result of the procedure.
The school requires proof of immunization for all new students.
Public health officials launched a campaign to increase immunization rates in rural areas to prevent a measles outbreak.
Widespread immunization has led to the global eradication of smallpox and a significant reduction in the incidence of polio and other debilitating childhood diseases.
From French immunisation. Coined by Albert Calmette. Equivalent to immunize + -ation or immune + -ization.
Uncountable when referring to the general medical process; countable when referring to specific types or instances of shots.