The two main types of immunity are active immunity and passive immunity.
Active Immunity
Active immunity is when your own immune system actively works to protect you from a pathogen. In this case, your body is responsible for creating antibodies and memory cells to fight off future infections.
- Example: Getting sick with the flu and then becoming immune to that specific strain.
Passive Immunity
Passive immunity occurs when you are protected from a pathogen by immunity gained from someone else. Your body does not actively create the antibodies; you receive them directly.
- Example: A baby receiving antibodies from its mother through the placenta or breast milk.
| Feature | Active Immunity | Passive Immunity |
|---|---|---|
| Antibody Source | Produced by your own immune system | Received from another source (e.g., mother, injection) |
| Duration | Long-lasting, often lifelong | Temporary, lasting only a few weeks or months |
| Mechanism | Body actively fights infection and creates memory | Ready-made antibodies are introduced into the body |
