The Naked Scientists Podcast Titans of Science: Andrew Pollard
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Apr 29, 2025 Andrew Pollard, a leading expert in infection and immunity, played a pivotal role in developing the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses how vaccines work and their significant impact on public health, shaping strategies to protect populations. Pollard delves into the responsibilities of the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation during the pandemic and addresses the complexities of vaccine side effects. He also highlights the revolutionary mRNA vaccine technology that promises to transform future immunization efforts.
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Vaccines Save Millions Annually
- Global childhood vaccination prevents three to five million deaths each year.
- Andrew Pollard highlights smallpox eradication and a 90% drop in measles deaths.
Vaccines Train The Immune System
- Vaccines safely train our immune system to recognise pathogen parts.
- Andrew Pollard says this lets immune systems eliminate real infections faster.
Different Vaccine Types Fit Different Targets
- Vaccines use toxoids, proteins, weakened or killed organisms depending on disease.
- Andrew Pollard explains choices follow scientific knowledge and historical practice.