1. 3.2 Factors Affecting the Immune System
Chapter 3 notes

2. General
A vaccine is a special version of an antigen that gives you immunity against a disease (like a weakened form of a disease)

3. Origin of vaccines:
Mary Montagu noticed women in Turkey infecting their children with a mild form of small pox
Doctor Edward Jenner noticed that farmers who had cow pox never got small pox

4. Disorders of the immune system
1. Allergies 
Unusually high sensitivity to some substance which acts like an antigen
Substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens 
Symptoms include runny nose and watery eyes which are a side effect of a substance called histamines

5. Disorders of the immune system
Antihistamines are taken to combat the effect 
If the reaction is severe and a person goes into anaphylactic shock then needles with adrenaline are injected into the body

6. Disorders of the immune system
2. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)
Caused by the HIV virus which attacks and destroys helper T cells so other pathogens can enter the body
Mainly transmitted in body fluid (semen and blood)

7. Taking care of your immune system
Eat a well balanced diet
Maintain your personal hygiene
Keep your home clean
Avoid tobacco and other non-prescription drugs

8. Taking care of your immune system
Get plenty of rest and exercise
Keep your vaccinations up to date
Do not engage in activities that involve sharing body fluids with others