What is the difference between passive and active immunity?

Active immunity is happens due to the contact of lymphocytes with pathoges (or simply their antigens), which triggers the specific immune response and immunological memory is produced (T-Memory cells created). This response is slow and can take up to a couple days, whilst its effects are long lasting. The final products of the immunity are antibodies and T-Memory cells. 

In passive immunity however, antibodies are taken into the body (could be from a poison antidote or from colostrum in human milk), and these antibodies only remain in the system for a short time, as then are then converted and excreted. This type of immunity is short term however it acts to clear the infection immediatelyNo immunological memory is created.

Both types of immunity can be artificial or natural.

KT
Answered by Katerina T. Biology tutor

16288 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Enzymes known as endopeptidases aid digestion of proteins in the small intestine. why do they only bind to amino acids and not other foods ingested?


What are the key components of DNA replication and what are their functions?


How does the human body regulate its blood glucose levels?


Describe the flow of blood in the heart


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences