Active immunity
Definition
Active immunity is the protection against a disease through the production of antibodies by the immune system. This can occur naturally through infection or artificially via vaccination.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Active immunity results in long-lasting protection due to memory cells.
- Vaccines are a common method for inducing active immunity without causing disease.
- It involves both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
- Natural active immunity occurs when a person is exposed to a live pathogen and develops a primary immune response.
- Artificial active immunity typically requires booster shots to maintain immunity over time.
Review Questions
- What are the two main ways active immunity can be acquired?
- Why do vaccines induce active immunity without causing actual disease?
- How does active immunity provide long-term protection?
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Related terms
Passive Immunity: Protection against disease through transferred antibodies, providing temporary immunity.
Memory Cells: Long-lived immune cells that remember past pathogens and provide faster responses upon re-exposure.
Booster Shot: An additional dose of a vaccine needed periodically to 'boost' the immune system.
