Vaccines work by exposing the body to a weakened or killed form of a pathogen. This exposure triggers an immune response and antibody production that provides future protection against the targeted disease. There are several types of vaccines including whole organism, purified components, recombinant, DNA, and subunit vaccines. Proper cold chain storage and transportation between 2-8 degrees Celsius is crucial for maintaining vaccine potency from manufacturer to point of administration via various methods like injection or oral delivery.