When you are vaccinated for a disease, can you still acquire it and transmit it to others?

When you are vaccinated for a disease, it generally reduces your chances of getting infected and transmitting it to others. However, no vaccine is 100% effective. In some cases, vaccinated individuals may still become infected, but the severity and duration of the illness are typically reduced. This is known as a breakthrough infection.

Even if a vaccinated person becomes infected, the likelihood of them transmitting the disease to others is usually lower compared to unvaccinated individuals. This is because vaccines can reduce the amount of virus in the body, making it less likely for the person to spread the infection. However, it is still possible for vaccinated individuals to transmit the disease, especially if they are asymptomatic or have a mild case.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of a vaccine can vary depending on factors such as the individual's immune system, the specific vaccine, and the circulating strains of the pathogen. Therefore, it is still essential for vaccinated individuals to continue practicing preventive measures, such as hand hygiene, wearing masks, and maintaining social distance, to reduce the risk of transmission.