Active Immunity: Natural Infection vs. Vaccination - How It Works

Active immunity can be produced through natural infection or through vaccination.

1. Natural infection: When an individual is exposed to and fights off an infection, their immune system produces antibodies that are specific to that pathogen. These antibodies remain in the body and provide long-term protection against future infections by the same pathogen.

2. Vaccination: Vaccines contain weakened or killed forms of pathogens, or parts of pathogens, which stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies without causing disease. Like natural infection, vaccination also provides long-term protection against future infections.