What are the names given to the body's first and second line of defence against disease? Name an example for each and how it works to prevent disease.

The first line of defence is passive immunity. An example is the skin and its job is to prevent a pathogen entering the body in the first place. Pathogens cannot penetrate the skin. The second line of defence is known as active immunity. An example is white blood cells and it prevents disease by ingesting pathogens to destroy them. They can also produce antibodies and antitoxins.

EP
Answered by Eric P. Biology tutor

6993 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the process that transports dissolved sugars around a plant?


What is diffusion?


How can a child inherit a disease from their parents if neither parent has the disease?


How do I compare the processes of diffusion and osmosis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning