The Immune System Flashcards
How are infectiousness diseases cause?
They are cause when an invader such as a virus or bacteria enter the body and prevents it from functioning properly.
What are pathogenic micro-organisms?
They are disease causing microscopic living entity.
What are pathogens?
Living organisms that cause diseases
How are pathogens spread?(3)
Give examples.
- Human contact- shaking hands, kissing, sexual intercourse
- In the air- sneezing, coughing
- Food and Water- can be contaminated with bacteria
Name a water related disease and how it is caused.
*Cholera
Cause by the bacterium Vibriocholerae
What are Vectors?
Animals that spread pathogenic diseases are called vectors.
How is the disease Malaria caused?
It is caused by the parasite Plasmodium and is transmitted by female mosquitoes.
How does the skin defends the body from pathogens?
The outer layer of the skin is made up of dead skin cells which creates an impassable barrier against pathogens.
How does the eye defends the body from pathogens?
Tear glands in the eye produces a liquid that contains enzymes that kills germs.
How does the stomach defends the body from pathogens?
Strong acids contained in the stomach kills pathogens.
How does the nose defends the body from pathogens?
The nostrils are lined with mucus . This is a sticky, slimy secretion that traps dust and microbes in the air, preventing them from entering the body.
What is inflammation?
Inflammation is the redness and swelling that appears around a cut or wound which is the body’s response to the invasion of pathogens.
Fever is not an illness. What is the function of a fever?
Fever stimulates the body’s defenses sending white blood cells and other “fighter” cells to attack and destroy harmful micro-organisms.
What are the 2 types of immunity?
- Active immunity
2. Passive immunity
What is Active Immunity?
When the body produces its own antibodies as a response to an invasion of pathogens or by injection of vaccines.
