What is the difference between passive and active immunity?

Active immunity is happens due to the contact of lymphocytes with pathoges (or simply their antigens), which triggers the specific immune response and immunological memory is produced (T-Memory cells created). This response is slow and can take up to a couple days, whilst its effects are long lasting. The final products of the immunity are antibodies and T-Memory cells. 

In passive immunity however, antibodies are taken into the body (could be from a poison antidote or from colostrum in human milk), and these antibodies only remain in the system for a short time, as then are then converted and excreted. This type of immunity is short term however it acts to clear the infection immediatelyNo immunological memory is created.

Both types of immunity can be artificial or natural.

KT
Answered by Katerina T. Biology tutor

16990 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why is it difficult for a baby to get enough oxygen to their tissues when there is a hole between the left and right ventricles?


Describe how oxygen in the air reaches the capillaries surrounding the alveoli.


Explain why when placed in distilled water a red blood cell would burst but a plant epidermis cell would not


Describe the process of DNA replication


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