What is active vs passive Immunisation

Active immunisation occurs when the body is exposed to a weakened or dead form of a disease-causing organism, which stimulates the body to produce immunity against that particular organism. Passive immunisation involves injecting pre-made antibodies against a certain disease into the body, which provide immediate, but temporary, protection against that disease.

Active immunisation involves administering a vaccine to a person, giving them the ability to produce their own antibodies to a specific pathogen. This occurs when the body's immune system is exposed to a weakened or dead form of a virus or bacteria, prompting it to create its own antibodies to fight off the disease. Passive immunisation, on the other hand, involves giving the person antibodies created by another organism, such as an animal or a laboratory. In this case, the body does not need to produce its own antibodies, as it has already been given the antibodies it needs to fight off the disease.

Active immunisation is the process of introducing a foreign antigen to the body in order to stimulate the production of antibodies to fight off a disease. This stimulation of the immune system is done in one of two ways: either by introducing a weakened or dead form of the virus into the body, or by introducing a protein or part of the virus that stimulates the body’s own production of antibodies. This process is often done through a vaccination, which is why it is also referred to as “vaccine-induced immunisation”.

In contrast, passive immunisation is the process of introducing already-made antibodies into the body. This is done either through the injection of antibodies or by transferring them through blood products, such as transfusions. Passive immunisation is often used when a patient has been infected with a virus or bacteria and needs immediate protection from the disease. It can also be used to protect a person from a disease that they have been exposed to but have not yet developed symptoms.

Active immunisation is generally considered to be more effective than passive immunisation. This is because it stimulates the body’s own production of antibodies, which are then able to fight off any future infection. On the other hand, passive immunisation is more immediate but less effective in the long-term, as the antibodies only provide temporary protection.

Overall, active and passive immunisation are two distinct methods of providing immunity to a person, with active immunisation generally being more effective and long-lasting than passive immunisation.

Q: What is the difference between active and passive immunization?

A: Active immunization occurs when an individual is exposed to a weakened or dead form of a pathogen, stimulating their immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells that will protect them from future exposures. Passive immunization, on the other hand, involves the injection of preformed antibodies that are produced in another organism, usually an animal. This provides immediate, but short-term, protection against the pathogen.