A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is the purpose of ring vaccination?

1. To prevent diseases in the elderly

2. To vaccinate people in contact with a new case

3. To ensure everyone in a large city is vaccinated

4. To maintain herd immunity

The correct answer is: To vaccinate people in contact with a new case

The purpose of ring vaccination is to vaccinate individuals who are in close contact with a new case of an infectious disease. This strategy aims to quickly control the spread of the disease while minimizing the risk to the broader population. By immunizing those who are likely to be exposed to the pathogen, ring vaccination effectively creates a protective barrier around the infection, reducing the likelihood of further transmission and outbreak escalation. This method is particularly useful in outbreak situations where vaccination of large populations is not feasible or necessary. It allows for a targeted approach that focuses resources on those at highest risk, thereby optimizing public health interventions. Through this targeted vaccination, the community is protected without overwhelming the healthcare system or wasting resources on unnecessary vaccinations.