An example of naturally acquired passive immunity is
Now, looking at the options (even though they're not listed here), the correct answer should be something like a newborn receiving antibodies from the mother. The other options might include things like vaccination (which is active immunity), or medical treatments like gamma globulin shots, which are artificial passive immunity. So, the key is to distinguish between natural and artificial, and active vs. passive.
Wait, the user provided the correct answer as option C: Immunity in a newborn from maternal antibodies. That makes sense because that's the classic example. The other options would be incorrect because they might involve other types of immunity. For example, if an option was getting a vaccine, that's active. Or if it was a blood transfusion with antibodies, that's artificial passive. So the correct answer is naturally acquired passive, which is maternal antibodies in the newborn. Got it.
**Core Concept**
Naturally acquired passive immunity involves the transfer of antibodies from a mother to her offspring without the recipient's immune system actively producing them. This occurs via placental transfer of IgG during pregnancy or through breast milk (IgA) postnatally.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Maternal antibodies (primarily IgG) cross the placenta via the **FcRn receptor** during the third trimester, providing the newborn with temporary immunity against pathogens the mother has encountered. This protection lasts 4β6 months postpartum, until maternal antibody levels decline. Breast milk also transfers IgA antibodies, which protect the infantβs mucosal surfaces. This is a classic example of **natural passive immunity**, as it occurs without medical intervention.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Vaccination induces **active immunity** (the body produces its own antibodies).
**Option B:** Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy is **artificial passive immunity**, not natural.
**Option D:** Recovery from an infection leads to **active immunity**, not passive.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the acronym: **NATURAL PASSIVE = MOTHER TO CHILD (PLACENTA/MILK)**. Artificial passive immunity involves antibody infusions (e.g., rabies immune globulin), while active immunity requires antigen exposure (vaccines or infection).
**Correct Answer: C. Immunity in a newborn from maternal antibodies**