California Cosmetology Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlMedium
A client mentions she had chickenpox as a child and has never contracted it again despite exposure to infected people. This type of resistance to disease is best classified as which form of immunity?
- APassive immunity
- BInnate immunity
- CAcquired immunity
- DCross immunity
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Acquired immunity
Acquired immunity develops after the body has been exposed to and overcome a disease (or through vaccination), producing antibodies that provide future resistance. This differs from innate (natural) immunity, which is present from birth and not disease-specific.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Passive immunity comes from an outside source like antibodies from another person, not self-exposure.
- B. Innate immunity is present from birth, not developed after having a specific illness.
- D. Cross immunity is not a standard immunity classification taught in cosmetology texts.
Types of Immunity
Immunity is classified as innate (natural, present from birth) or acquired (developed after exposure to disease or vaccination).
- Innate immunity: inborn, general resistance
- Acquired immunity: develops from illness or vaccination
- Acquired immunity creates disease-specific antibodies
Memory trick: Acquired = 'earned' immunity after the battle with illness