# Explain why a person who has already had chickenpox is unlikely to become ill from the chickenpox virus again.

> Eduqas GCSE Biology — 3.2 Communicable disease · Explain · 4 marks

> Chickenpox is a communicable disease caused by a virus. After a person recovers from chickenpox, their immune system retains a 'memory' of the pathogen.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The immune system produces antibodies in response to the chickenpox virus (antigen)
2. Memory cells / lymphocytes are produced and remain in the body after the first infection
3. On re-exposure to the same pathogen, antibodies are produced more quickly / in greater quantities
4. The pathogen is destroyed before it can cause illness / symptoms do not develop

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Biology](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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