Which medical practice is primarily focused on protecting individuals from exposure to pathogens?

Immunization is primarily focused on protecting individuals from exposure to pathogens by stimulating the immune system to develop a defense against specific infectious agents. Through the administration of vaccines, the immune response is prepared to recognize and combat pathogens if a person is exposed to them in the future. This proactive approach helps prevent diseases by building immunity, thereby reducing the likelihood of infection.

In contrast, disinfection involves the elimination of most pathogenic microorganisms from surfaces or instruments but does not guarantee a complete eradication, especially of spores. Sterilization refers to the process of destroying all forms of microbial life, including spores, but it is typically applied to inanimate objects rather than directly to individuals. Antisepsis focuses on preventing infection by applying antimicrobial agents on living tissues, but it does not provide the long-lasting immunity that immunization achieves.