What does the term "vaccination" refer to?

The term "vaccination" specifically refers to the administration of a vaccine to stimulate an immune response. Vaccines are biological preparations that provide active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease. When a vaccine is introduced into an organism, it trains the immune system to recognize and combat pathogens such as viruses or bacteria in the future. This process helps in preventing diseases before they occur.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately represent the definition of vaccination. Treating a disease with antibiotics involves the use of medication to eliminate bacteria, rather than stimulating an immune response. Administering vitamins is a supportive measure to promote health but does not involve the immune system in the same way that vaccines do. The application of topical medication for infections is a localized treatment aimed at managing infections and does not engage the broader immune response that vaccination entails. Thus, the correct choice highlights the fundamental role of vaccines in disease prevention through immunization.