Vaccinations are used to give the body an idea of what a disease looks like. From there, the body will be able to recognize when the infectious agent enters the body and the immune system will be faster to respond. Specific vaccinations can be required for different operations. Killing the infectious agent or making it unable to cause disease makes vaccinations. From here administration amounts and methods are tested and designated, and should be followed strictly. Vaccinations are important for gestating sows in that they equip them with antibodies that can be passed on to their offspring via colostrum. Note that vaccinations should be given at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to exposure, and some require booster shots later on.