The passing of antibodies into newborn babies by their mothers is known as
options: A) active immunity B) passive immunity C) primary immune response D) antigens
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B) passive immunity.
Explanation:
Passive immunity refers to the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another. In the case of newborns, this type of immunity is provided by the mother. During pregnancy, antibodies, primarily immunoglobulin G (IgG), pass through the placenta from the mother to the fetus. This transfer helps protect the newborn against infections in the early months of life, as the infant’s immune system is still developing and not yet capable of producing its own antibodies.
Passive immunity can also be transferred through breastfeeding. The colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, contains high concentrations of immunoglobulin A (IgA), which provides protection against pathogens that the infant may encounter in the environment. These antibodies offer immediate protection to the newborn but do not last long since the infant’s immune system is not directly involved in producing them.
Unlike active immunity, where the body produces its own antibodies in response to exposure to pathogens or vaccination, passive immunity does not involve the activation of the immune system. This makes passive immunity a temporary form of protection, typically lasting only a few weeks to months. It is an important defense mechanism, especially for infants, who are particularly vulnerable to infections in the early stages of life.
Although passive immunity is beneficial for short-term protection, it does not provide long-lasting immunity like active immunity does. Once the antibodies transferred from the mother degrade, the infant’s immune system must begin producing its own antibodies in response to infections or vaccinations.