Immunities

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Immunities refer to the state of being immune or resistant to a particular disease or infection. Immunity is a crucial aspect of our body’s defense mechanism that helps protect us from harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances.

There are two primary types of immunity:

  1. Innate Immunity: This is the natural defense system we are born with. It provides immediate, non-specific protection against a wide range of pathogens. Innate immunity includes physical barriers like the skin, mucous membranes, and chemical defenses such as enzymes and acids in body secretions. Additionally, innate immunity involves cells like neutrophils, macrophages, and natural killer cells that can recognize and eliminate foreign invaders.
  2. Adaptive Immunity: This is a more specific and acquired form of immunity. It develops throughout our lives as we encounter different pathogens. Adaptive immunity relies on specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes, specifically B cells and T cells. When a new pathogen enters the body, these cells can recognize its unique antigens (molecules on the surface of the pathogen) and mount a targeted immune response to eliminate the invader. The adaptive immune system also forms immunological memory, which allows it to respond more efficiently upon subsequent encounters with the same pathogen.

In addition to these natural immunities, there are other types of immunities that can be acquired:

  1. Active Immunity: This form of immunity is acquired when the body’s immune system responds to an infection or is stimulated by vaccination. Active immunity can be long-lasting, providing protection against future exposures to the same pathogen.
  2. Passive Immunity: Passive immunity is temporary and acquired through the transfer of antibodies from another source. For example, a baby receives passive immunity from their mother through the placenta or breast milk, providing protection against certain diseases. Passive immunity can also be artificially induced through the administration of antibodies, such as immunoglobulins, to individuals who require immediate protection against a specific infection.

It’s important to note that while immunities can protect us from various diseases, they are not absolute. Different pathogens can evolve and adapt, and our immune system may not always effectively respond to every threat. Furthermore, individual immune responses can vary, depending on factors such as age, overall health, and genetic predisposition.

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