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7.4 ADVANCES IN PURE SCIENCES

A Novel Approach to Improve Vaccination Rates: MAPs

Immunisation helps protect children from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, and measles, saving around four
million lives annually. Nonetheless, recent outbreaks of measles and the resurgence of polioviruses have
shown the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to eradicate these diseases. Unfortunately,
global immunisation coverage has either plateaued or even declined for various reasons. One significant factor
is that the world fell behind on vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, compromising previous progress
in immunisation services. To eliminate transmission and prevent outbreaks, it is crucial that at least 90–95%
of children be vaccinated. Therefore, countries must step up their efforts to address the historic decline in
immunisation rates. Limited access to immunisation services in low-income countries and conflict-affected
regions is also a contributing factor. Furthermore, existing vaccines face obstacles when reaching remote
areas due to the need for cold storage and trained personnel, which is particularly problematic in unstable
environments and harsh climates. Moreover, the use of needles and syringes can cause discomfort and pain,
leading to vaccine hesitancy. However, thanks to advancements, there is a promising solution available that has
the potential to greatly enhance global immunisation coverage: vaccine-containing microarray patches (MAPs).
These small patches are equipped with microneedles that painlessly penetrate the skin or a formula that
dissolves upon contact with the skin. They serve as a convenient alternative to traditional injection methods,
enabling carers to dexterously administer vaccines in any setting without the need for needles, syringes, or cold
storage.

a Match the highlighted words and phrases in the passage to the definitions below.

1. : the sudden start of something unpleasant, especially violence or a disease
2. : showing signs of being successful or good in the future
3. : in a way that shows skill, especially with one’s hands
4. : to increase the amount, speed, etc. of something
5. : once a year; each year
6. : the state or quality of being slow or uncertain in doing or saying something
7. : to stay at a steady level after a period of growth or progress
8. : not firmly fixed or steady, likely to change or become uncertain
9. : to destroy or get rid of something completely, especially something bad
10. : to fail to keep level with somebody or something

b Complete the sentences with the correct forms of the words given below.

dexterously hesitancy unstable
annually eradicate promising

1. If an ecosystem can return to its normal state after a disturbance or does not undergo significant and
unexpected changes over time, it is considered to have ecological .
2. Scientists were initially about the idea that DNA could carry genetic information, but they
soon became convinced after a series of groundbreaking experiments.
3. Researchers are eagerly anticipating the conference, as it allows them to disseminate
their latest findings in the realm of pure sciences.
4. The use of advanced imaging techniques by biologists has resulted in important findings,
such as the detailed exploration of cellular structures and mechanisms.
5. Recent progress in genetics research shows great for comprehending the underlying
genetic mechanisms of various diseases and the potential development of innovative treatments.
6. Recent advances in biochemistry offer hope for the eventual of certain diseases that have
afflicted the human population for extended periods of time.

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