Presenter: Heather Zwickey, PhD
Original Date: April 14, 2024

Infectious diseases have long posed significant threats to human health and well-being, prompting the development and widespread implementation of vaccines as a primary preventive measure. While vaccines have been instrumental in reducing the burden of infectious diseases, their administration has raised concerns regarding potential links to autoimmunity. The intricate interplay between infectious agents and the immune response can sometimes lead to dysregulation, resulting in autoimmune reactions. Vaccines, designed to mimic natural infection and stimulate protective immunity, can occasionally trigger autoimmune responses through various mechanisms, including molecular mimicry, bystander activation, and epitope spreading. In this seminar, we’ll discuss how infectious disease and the strategies designed to reduce them, vaccines, may contribute to autoimmunity.

NUNM is accredited by the North American Naturopathic Continuing Education Council (NANCEAC). This activity qualifies for 1.0 General, and 0.5 Pharmacology CEUs.