# Explain why passive immunity provides only short-term protection against disease, whilst active immunity provides long-term protection.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 10.1 Diseases and immunity · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Passive immunity does not involve the production of memory cells
2. In passive immunity, antibodies are transferred from another individual / source and are eventually broken down
3. Active immunity results in the production of memory cells
4. Memory cells remain in the body for years / recognise the same antigen on re-infection and produce antibodies rapidly, giving long-term immunity

## Key terms

- [passive immunity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/passive-immunity)
- [active immunity](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/active-immunity)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-passive-immunity-provides-only-3bfa4487) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.