Viruses have tiny spikes called spike proteins. These spikes help viruses enter our cells and make us sick. An mRNA vaccine teaches the body how to recognize these spikes. It works like a recipe that tells cells to make harmless copies of the spike protein. The body then learns that the protein does not belong there. White blood cells remember it and prepare to fight. The mRNA is broken down after a few days, but the immune system keeps the memory. Later, if the real virus enters the body, the immune system can quickly recognize the spikes and defend the body faster.
Hyundong Lee Staff Reporter kids/1780286883/1613368218
1. What tiny things make us sick?
2. What looks like a cell recipe?
3. Do white blood cells fight viruses?
1. Have you ever had bad flu?
2. Are white blood cells very strong?
3. How do you fight off sickness?
Viruses have tiny spikes called spike proteins. These spikes help viruses enter our cells and make us sick. An mRNA vaccine teaches the body how to recognize these spikes. It works like a recipe that tells cells to make harmless copies of the spike protein. The body then learns that the protein does not belong there. White blood cells remember it and prepare to fight. The mRNA is broken down after a few days, but the immune system keeps the memory. Later, if the real virus enters the body, the immune system can quickly recognize the spikes and defend the body faster.
