Immune system Flashcard

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What is the function of vaccines in the immune system?

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Vaccines introduce weakened or inactive pathogens to trigger the immune system to produce antibodies.

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What are antibodies?

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Antibodies are proteins that bind to specific antigens and mark them for destruction by other immune cells.

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What is herd immunity?

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Herd immunity is the protection of a population from a disease when a high percentage of the community is immune, either through vaccination or previous infections.

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How do vaccines help in preventing infections?

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Vaccines stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight pathogens without causing the disease.

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What role do antigens play in the immune response?

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Antigens are substances that trigger an immune response, leading to the production of antibodies.

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What is the difference between active and passive immunity?

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Active immunity is developed through exposure to pathogens or vaccination, while passive immunity is acquired through antibodies from another source, such as maternal antibodies.

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How do memory cells contribute to immunity?

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Memory cells are long-lived immune cells that remember past infections and enable a faster response upon re-exposure to the same pathogen.

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What is the importance of immunization programs?

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Immunization programs help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and protect vulnerable populations.

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What is the role of T-cells in the immune system?

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T-cells are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in cell-mediated immunity, helping to destroy infected cells.

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How do vaccines contribute to herd immunity?

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Vaccines increase the number of immune individuals in a population, reducing the overall spread of disease and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated.