Question

This type of immunity is acquired via the passing of antibodies from a mother to a child to give immunity during the development of the child's immune system. Which type of adaptive immunity does the following statement describe?

1) artificially acquired passive immunity
2) artificially acquired active immunity
3) naturally acquired passive immunity
4) naturally acquired active immunity

Answer 1

Naturally acquired passive immunity is the transfer of maternal antibodies to the child, providing immediate but temporary protection against pathogens.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of adaptive immunity acquired via the passing of antibodies from a mother to a child is known as naturally acquired passive immunity. During fetal development, antibodies like IgG are transferred from the mother to the fetus through the placenta. After birth, the newborn also receives IgA antibodies through breast milk. This form of immunity provides immediate protection to the child against pathogens, by utilizing the mother's immunological experience. However, this immunity is temporary as the transferred antibodies degrade over time, without inducing immunological memory in the child.