Specific Immunity
Protection against a future attack from a specific pathogen (virus or bacteria), acquired after being exposed to it in a first infection.
Specific immunity refers to the body’s ability to generate an immune response specific to a particular pathogen or foreign substance. This type of immunity is based on highly specialized cells and molecules that can recognize and attack specific antigens, which are unique molecules found on the surface of foreign substances.
There are two main types of specific immunity: humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity. Humoral immunity involves the production of antibodies by B cells, which can attach to antigens and neutralize or mark them for destruction by other immune cells. Cell-mediated immunity, on the other hand, involves the activation of specialized T cells that can directly attack and destroy infected cells or cancer cells.
Specific immunity is critical for protecting the body against a wide range of pathogens and other foreign substances, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It also plays an important role in preventing autoimmunity, which is when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells and tissues.
Specific immunity can be acquired through natural processes, such as exposure to pathogens in the environment or through vaccination. Vaccines work by introducing specific antigens to the immune system, allowing it to generate a protective immune response without causing disease.
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