Describe the major properties of and the differences between innate and adaptive immunity. (20%) b. Distinguish between: (20%) i. active and passive immunity ii. natural and artificial immunity The two main types of immunity are innate and adaptive immunity.

There are two types of immunity: adaptive and innate.

Innate immunity refers to the body’s natural and immediate defense against disease. It is comprised of chemical, biological and physical barriers. This immunity exists at birth, and it is your first line defense against infection. However, adaptive immunity is an additional response to infection that occurs after contact with a pathogen. It involves the creation of antibodies or memory cells and is more specific. It is not specific and responds quickly to pathogens. The three major components of innate immunity are physical, chemical, and biological. Mucous membranes, skin and cilia all form physical barriers. They are hair-like structures which line the respiratory system. Antimicrobial proteins and enzymes are some examples of chemical barriers. Macrophages and neutrophils are biological barriers that can be used to eliminate and identify pathogens. (Maggio and al., 2019, 2019).
Adaptive immune system is a specific type of immunity that involves the generation of antibodies and memory cell. This immunity type is acquired over time. It involves the identification and destruction of antigens. Cont…