What is immunity, and how do we make our immunity better?
The Hindu
Discover what immunity is and learn effective ways to enhance your immune system for better health and well-being.
You must have heard people around you often say that someone’s immunity is low or to eat healthy so that your immunity is better. Has your mind ever gone to who or what even is immunity?
Well, immunity is the body’s ability to resist, fight off, and protect itself from harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses), toxins, or foreign substances. It acts as a defence shield, utilising specialised white blood cells, organs, and proteins to recognise and eliminate pathogens.
Immunity is mainly of three types:
Innate Immunity (Natural): The first line of defence present at birth, providing immediate, non-specific protection via physical barriers like skin, mucus, and stomach acid.
Adaptive Immunity (Acquired): Develops throughout life, creating a specific, tailored response to infections or vaccinations. It involves T and B cells, and memory cells that recognise pathogens for future, faster protection.
Passive Immunity (Borrowed): Immediate but short-term protection acquired from outside sources, such as antibodies passed from mother to baby or via vaccination.
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