Active immunisation is the process of introducing a foreign antigen to the body in order to stimulate the production of antibodies to fight off a disease. This stimulation of the immune system is done in one of two ways: either by introducing a weakened or dead form of the virus into the body, or by introducing a protein or part of the virus that stimulates the body’s own production of antibodies. This process is often done through a vaccination, which is why it is also referred to as “vaccine-induced immunisation”.
In contrast, passive immunisation is the process of introducing already-made antibodies into the body. This is done either through the injection of antibodies or by transferring them through blood products, such as transfusions. Passive immunisation is often used when a patient has been infected with a virus or bacteria and needs immediate protection from the disease. It can also be used to protect a person from a disease that they have been exposed to but have not yet developed symptoms.
Active immunisation is generally considered to be more effective than passive immunisation. This is because it stimulates the body’s own production of antibodies, which are then able to fight off any future infection. On the other hand, passive immunisation is more immediate but less effective in the long-term, as the antibodies only provide temporary protection.
Overall, active and passive immunisation are two distinct methods of providing immunity to a person, with active immunisation generally being more effective and long-lasting than passive immunisation.
