Immunity is necessary to prevent infectious diseases from spreading. Differentiate between passive-acquired and active-acquired immunity.
Immunity is a critical function of the human body that helps prevent infectious diseases from spreading. The immune system is composed of various cells, tissues, and organs that work together to recognize and eliminate foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Immunity can be acquired through two primary mechanisms: passive-acquired immunity and active-acquired immunity. Understanding the differences between these two types of immunity is essential for healthcare professionals and individuals to protect themselves and others from infectious diseases.
Passive-acquired immunity refers to the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another. This type of immunity is passive because the recipient does not produce the antibodies themselves but instead acquires them from an external source. Passive immunity can be either natural or artificial. Natural passive immunity occurs when an infant receives maternal antibodies through the placenta or breast milk. These antibodies provide protection against infectious diseases until the infant’s immune system becomes fully developed. Artificial passive immunity occurs when an individual is given antibodies that were produced in another person or animal, such as immune globulin or monoclonal antibodies. This type of immunity provides immediate protection against certain infectious diseases but is temporary, as the antibodies are gradually eliminated from the body.
Active-acquired immunity, on the other hand, refers to the immune response that occurs when an individual is exposed to a pathogen and their immune system produces antibodies to eliminate it. Active immunity can be either natural or artificial. Natural active immunity occurs when an individual is exposed to a pathogen and their immune system produces antibodies that provide long-lasting protection against that specific pathogen. For example, an individual who contracts and recovers from chickenpox develops immunity to the virus that causes the disease. Artificial active immunity occurs when an individual is given a vaccine that contains a weakened or inactivated form of a pathogen. The vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that provide protection against the pathogen without causing the disease. Artificial active immunity is an effective way to prevent infectious diseases and has played a significant role in reducing the incidence of many life-threatening diseases.
In clinical practice, understanding the differences between passive and active immunity is essential for selecting appropriate treatments and preventive measures for infectious diseases. For example, if an individual is exposed to a pathogen and has not developed natural immunity, passive immunity can be used to provide temporary protection against the disease. Immune globulin or monoclonal antibodies can be administered to prevent the disease from spreading or to reduce the severity of symptoms. On the other hand, if an individual is at risk of developing a specific infectious disease, vaccination can be used to induce active immunity and provide long-lasting protection against the disease.
In conclusion, immunity is necessary to prevent infectious diseases from spreading, and there are two primary mechanisms by which immunity can be acquired: passive-acquired immunity and active-acquired immunity. Passive immunity refers to the transfer of pre-formed antibodies from one individual to another, while active immunity refers to the immune response that occurs when an individual is exposed to a pathogen and produces antibodies to eliminate it. Understanding the differences between passive and active immunity is essential for healthcare professionals and individuals to select appropriate treatments and preventive measures to protect themselves and others from infectious diseases