How is artificial passive immunity typically administered?

How is artificial passive immunity typically administered?

• A. Through a vaccine
• B. Through maternal transfer
• C. By intravenous injection of antibodies
• D. By natural infection

Answer: (C)

Artificial passive immunity is typically administered through the intravenous injection of antibodies. This type of immunity involves the direct introduction of pre-formed antibodies into the body to provide immediate protection against specific pathogens. Unlike active immunity, which develops when the body’s immune system is directly challenged by an infection or a vaccine, artificial passive immunity does not require the immune system to produce its own antibodies.

This method is particularly useful in situations where rapid protection is needed, such as after exposure to certain toxins or infections where the immune response could be too slow to be effective. For instance, the administration of immunoglobulin therapy or antivenoms are practical applications of this type of immunity, delivering immediate antibodies that can neutralize pathogens or toxins.

In contrast, administration through a vaccine involves introducing antigens to stimulate the body’s immune response, which is a process of active immunity, while maternal transfer and natural infection also involve the body's immune mechanisms in either a passive or active capacity.