The common infectious diseases of childhood are not now as frightening as they were to former generations.
This is because of immunisation and antibiotics.
Better nutrition has also contributed and those who are initially healthier have an advantage in fighting off infection.
But, because these illnesses are no longer common, we have become complacent and, unfortunately, some have forgotten about immunisation for children or see no need for it.
Although the diseases are uncommon, the germs causing them are still widespread in the community.
Some people, for philosophical, religious or medical reasons, object to immunisation for their children but, for the overwhelming majority, apathy causes rejection.
The germs, bacteria and viruses causing infectious illness stimulate the body’s immune system to make antibodies. These are chemicals which lock on to the germ, or the toxin or poison produced by the germ, and render it harmless.
This process starts when the germ enters the body and is recognised as being foreign.
The first time the body comes into contact with it, there are no antibodies to this particular invader and the body sets about making them. But this takes time. Meanwhile, the germ may multiply and cause the disease.
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