Buzz
Each person has a different immune capacity due to diverse physical conditions. Those with a strong immune system can prevent various illnesses and harmful microorganisms. Conversely, individuals with weaker immune systems are prone to illness, fatigue, or infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. So, what does immunity mean?
What is immunity? How many types of immunity are there?
In the medical field, immunology is a highly regarded discipline. Besides studying factors affecting the immune system, scientists also seek ways to enhance and boost the immune system of various species. So, how can we strengthen the human immune system?
1. What is immunity?
Immunity, also known as immune defense, encompasses all biological mechanisms that enable a multicellular organism to maintain the integrity of its cells and tissues, ensuring the body's defense by eliminating damaged components, as well as substances and organisms that invade.
In simple terms, immunity refers to the ability of individuals to resist certain diseases despite living in environments abundant with disease-causing bacteria. When the human body is invaded by bacteria, the inherent resistance present in the body fights against these harmful agents, known as innate immunity or natural immunity. It includes mechanisms readily available in the organism's body, ready to combat any invading microorganisms. If cells become infected, immune cells will produce proteins that break down infected cells, preventing virus replication.
What is immunity and how many types of immunity are there? Immunologists classify types of immunity based on their formation as follows:
- Natural immunity.
- Artificial immunity.
What is immunity? The difference between natural and artificial immunity
2. The difference between natural and artificial immunity
Immunity is categorized into 2 types, including natural immunity and artificial immunity. The commonality between these two types of immunity is that the body produces antibodies to eliminate bacteria, viruses, protecting the human body from illness, both have disease-preventing properties.
Differences between natural and artificial immunity:
- Natural immunity:
+ The body's white blood cells produce antibodies, releasing ready-made antibodies to combat specific bacteria, viruses; when they invade the body, they cannot cause illness.
+ The duration of immunity varies depending on the type of disease and the individual's health status.
+ It often lasts a lifetime and can be hereditary.
- Artificial immunity:
+ Through human intervention, white blood cells are stimulated to produce antibodies by vaccination. When the vaccine enters the body, it triggers white blood cells to produce antibodies, thus making antibodies readily available in the body. Bacteria and viruses invading the body will not cause illness.
+ The immunity formed lasts long-term.
+ There is no hereditary capability.
From the information mentioned above about immunity, readers have identified the differences between natural and artificial immunity. To maintain a healthy body, besides supplementing essential nutrients daily, readers should also actively exercise to strengthen the immune system. Additionally, readers should also learn about health insurance to choose the most suitable type for themselves.
