Difference between Active and passive immunity

Difference between Active and passive immunity:

 

S. No.

Active immunity

Passive immunity

(i)

 

 

 

(ii)

(iii)

(iv)

 

(v)

It is developed due to contact with pathogen (dead or living) or its antigen, that leads to production of antibodies in the host body.

It has no side effects or only few.

It is slow but long lasting.

It takes time to develop its response.

 

For example, vaccination for polio, etc.

 

It is developed when ready-made antibodies are injected into the body.

 

It may cause a reaction.

It is fast but lasts only for few days.

It is used when the immune response has to be faster.

For example, administration of tetanus antitoxins, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passive immunity important examples:

  • The yellowish fluid colostrum secreted by mother during the initial days of lactation has abundant antibodies (IgA) to protect the infant. The foetus also receives some antibodies from their mother, through the placenta during pregnancy.
  • Even in cases of snakebites, the injection which is given to the patients, contain preformed antibodies against the snake venom. This type of immunisation is called passive immunisation.
Related Keywords