In what way did scientists Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin influence society?
They generated plastics for increased manufacturing.
They discovered a vaccine to reduce illnesses.
They discovered the uses of X-rays to improve patient care.
They generated hydroelectric power for cleaner energy.
The correct answer is:
- They discovered a vaccine to reduce illnesses.
Both Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin were virologists who made significant contributions to the development of vaccines. Jonas Salk developed the first effective and safe vaccine against polio, known as the inactivated poliovirus vaccine or IPV. This vaccine played a crucial role in reducing the incidence of polio globally and was widely administered through injection.
Albert Sabin, on the other hand, developed the oral polio vaccine (OPV), which was an attenuated or weakened form of the poliovirus. This vaccine was administered orally and offered long-lasting immunity against the disease. The oral vaccine developed by Sabin was easier to administer and had a greater impact on eradicating polio worldwide, particularly in developing countries.
Their discoveries and subsequent vaccines had a profound influence on society. The polio vaccines developed by Salk and Sabin led to a dramatic decrease in the number of polio cases, saving millions of lives and preventing countless cases of permanent paralysis. These vaccines were instrumental in controlling the polio epidemic and ultimately led to the elimination of polio in many parts of the world.
The successful development of polio vaccines also bolstered public confidence in vaccinations and served as a foundation for the development of other vaccines. The work of Salk and Sabin not only revolutionized the field of virology but also had a lasting impact on public health, significantly improving society's ability to prevent and control infectious diseases.