What is the primary goal of immunization?

The primary goal of immunization is to induce immunity to an infectious disease. By administering vaccines, the immune system is trained to recognize and combat specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. This process helps the body build a memory of the pathogen, allowing for a quicker and more effective response if exposed in the future. Immunization is a vital public health tool aimed at preventing outbreaks, protecting vulnerable populations, and ultimately reducing the incidence of infectious diseases. It plays a crucial role in achieving herd immunity, thereby protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as certain individuals with medical conditions.

Other options, while related to healthcare, do not accurately represent the core objective of immunization. Immediate relief from diseases is not the focus; rather, immunization seeks to prevent the occurrence of disease. Increasing healthcare costs contradicts the long-term benefits of vaccination, which often reduces overall healthcare spending by preventing disease outbreaks and associated treatment costs. Lastly, promoting the use of pharmaceutical products is not the ultimate aim of immunization; instead, the primary focus is on disease prevention and public health improvement through immunity.