Question:
Differentiate between active and passive immunity. Write any three differences.
Differentiate between active and passive immunity. Write any three differences.
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Active immunity relies on host engagement to produce antibodies and memory cells, whereas passive immunity delivers temporary protection without activating the host's immune system.
Updated On: Aug 16, 2026
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Solution and Explanation
Concept:
Immunity is classified based on whether the host's body produces its own protective agents or receives them pre-manufactured from an outside source.
Comparative Differences:
Feature & Active Immunity & Passive Immunity
Production & Developed when the host's own immune cells encounter live/dead antigens and synthesize endogenous antibodies. & Developed by receiving pre-formed antibodies directly from an external biological source.
Response Time & It takes time to activate fully; the response is slow and progressive. & Provides immediate, fast, and instant protection against pathogens.
Memory & Long-lasting immunity accompanied by the creation of specific immunological memory cells. & Short-lived immunity with no immunological memory cell formation.
Trigger Source & Produced during a natural infection or induced artificially via vaccines (e.g., BCG, MMR). & Received across the placenta ($\text{IgG}$), via colostrum ($\text{IgA}$), or via anti-tetanus serum (ATS) injections.
Production & Developed when the host's own immune cells encounter live/dead antigens and synthesize endogenous antibodies. & Developed by receiving pre-formed antibodies directly from an external biological source.
Response Time & It takes time to activate fully; the response is slow and progressive. & Provides immediate, fast, and instant protection against pathogens.
Memory & Long-lasting immunity accompanied by the creation of specific immunological memory cells. & Short-lived immunity with no immunological memory cell formation.
Trigger Source & Produced during a natural infection or induced artificially via vaccines (e.g., BCG, MMR). & Received across the placenta ($\text{IgG}$), via colostrum ($\text{IgA}$), or via anti-tetanus serum (ATS) injections.
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