Vaccines help the body develop immunity by activating the immune system, allowing specific immune cells to form "memory" of pathogens. This memory enables a more effective response upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen. Typically, vaccines consist of harmless components or inactivated forms of viruses or bacteria, which help the immune system recognize and respond to these threats without causing illness. In some cases, multiple doses are necessary to ensure sufficient immune memory. When encountering a new pathogen, the immune system generates various antibodies through a trial-and-error process, ultimately creating effective defenses against future infections. Vaccines provide a safe way for the body to learn to combat pathogens without the risk of illness associated with actual infections.