Decoding mucosal immunity: impact of SARS-CoV-2 and Bordetella pertussis vaccination and infection

To prevent illness and death from infections, vaccinations are crucial. Vaccinations, like natural infections, activate the adaptive immune system and create immunological memory. Most vaccines are administered via injections (intramuscularly) and primarily stimulate immunity in the blood, mainly IgG antibodies. While this is effective against severe illness, vaccinations sometimes provide insufficient protection against mild symptoms and the spread of pathogens through the mucous membranes. This is seen with pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and B. pertussis. Individuals vaccinated against these pathogens can still become infected and spread the infection.

In this dissertation we investigate how infection and vaccination affect the antibody response in the upper respiratory tract. By comparing the antibody response to infection and vaccination, we can better understand how to improve protection against respiratory infections, not only against severe illness but also against spread. This is important for the development of better vaccines.