Immunology: innate and adaptive immunity, antigens, antibodies
Microbiology · MBBS
Study notes
A newborn is protected by mother's antibodies for months — then needs vaccines. Maternal IgG crosses the placenta — passive immunity shielding the infant's first months; breast milk IgA guards the gut. As maternal antibodies wane, the immunization schedule (BCG, OPV, DPT at 6/10/14 weeks) builds active immunity — the handoff from borrowed to owned protection. Vaccinating on schedule fills the gap before vulnerability opens. The infant's shield is lent — then earned.
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