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How Your Immune System Fights Viruses and Defends Against Infections

36

0

A

alannah

17/12/2022

Biology

infections and response

1,210

17 Dec 2022

1 page

How Your Immune System Fights Viruses and Defends Against Infections

A

alannah

@alannahk_

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues,... Show more

INFECTION & RESPONSE the IMMUNE response
PART
communicable diseases WHAT PATHOGEN
What does
CAUSES THESE
phagocytosis:
colour
DISEASES? code

Infection and Immune Response: Understanding Communicable Diseases

This comprehensive guide explores the intricate world of infectious diseases and the body's immune response. It covers various aspects of how the immune system works to protect against pathogens and maintain health.

Definition: Communicable diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens that can be transmitted from one person or organism to another.

The page begins by introducing different types of pathogens responsible for communicable diseases:

  1. Bacteria
  2. Viruses
  3. Fungi
  4. Protists

Several specific diseases are mentioned, including:

  • Gonorrhoea
  • Malaria
  • Measles
  • Rose Black Spot (a plant disease)
  • Tobacco Mosaic Virus (another plant disease)
  • HIV
  • Salmonella

Example: Measles, caused by a virus, typically presents with symptoms like fever and a red skin rash.

The guide then provides a detailed list of symptoms associated with various diseases, helping readers identify potential infections:

  1. Fever and red skin rash: Measles
  2. Flu-like illness and weakened immune system: HIV
  3. Vomiting and diarrhoea: Salmonella
  4. Yellow/green discharge from penis/vagina: Gonorrhoea
  5. Anaemia: Malaria
  6. Purple/black spots on leaves: Rose Black Spot
  7. Blotches of discolouration on leaves: Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Highlight: Understanding the symptoms of different communicable diseases is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.

The page then delves into how the body defends itself against infection, focusing on the process of phagocytosis:

Vocabulary: Phagocytosis is the process by which certain immune cells engulf and destroy pathogens.

A detailed diagram illustrates the steps of phagocytosis:

  1. A white blood cell detects a pathogen
  2. The pathogen is engulfed, forming a phagosome
  3. Digestive enzymes are released into the phagosome
  4. The pathogen is destroyed

The guide also touches on other bodily defenses, such as:

  • Skin as a physical barrier
  • Mucus in the respiratory system
  • Acid in the stomach

Finally, the page introduces the concept of vaccination:

Definition: Vaccines are substances containing weakened or dead pathogens that stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells.

Key points about vaccines include:

  • They contain dead or weakened pathogens
  • Vaccines are detected by white blood cells
  • Memory cells are produced to recognize the pathogen
  • Antibodies are rapidly produced if the live pathogen infects the person later

The guide concludes by discussing the benefits and drawbacks of vaccination:

Benefits:

  • Provides immunity
  • Prevents illness
  • Contributes to herd immunity

Drawbacks:

  • May not always be effective
  • Can potentially cause mild illness

Quote: "Should everyone be vaccinated?" This question encourages readers to consider the broader implications of vaccination policies.

This comprehensive overview provides a solid foundation for understanding how the immune system fights viruses and other pathogens, as well as the importance of vaccination in public health.



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App Store

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Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Biology

1,210

17 Dec 2022

1 page

How Your Immune System Fights Viruses and Defends Against Infections

A

alannah

@alannahk_

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful pathogens. This summary explores how the immune system fights viruses and other infectious agents, detailing types of immune responses... Show more

INFECTION & RESPONSE the IMMUNE response
PART
communicable diseases WHAT PATHOGEN
What does
CAUSES THESE
phagocytosis:
colour
DISEASES? code

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Infection and Immune Response: Understanding Communicable Diseases

This comprehensive guide explores the intricate world of infectious diseases and the body's immune response. It covers various aspects of how the immune system works to protect against pathogens and maintain health.

Definition: Communicable diseases are illnesses caused by pathogens that can be transmitted from one person or organism to another.

The page begins by introducing different types of pathogens responsible for communicable diseases:

  1. Bacteria
  2. Viruses
  3. Fungi
  4. Protists

Several specific diseases are mentioned, including:

  • Gonorrhoea
  • Malaria
  • Measles
  • Rose Black Spot (a plant disease)
  • Tobacco Mosaic Virus (another plant disease)
  • HIV
  • Salmonella

Example: Measles, caused by a virus, typically presents with symptoms like fever and a red skin rash.

The guide then provides a detailed list of symptoms associated with various diseases, helping readers identify potential infections:

  1. Fever and red skin rash: Measles
  2. Flu-like illness and weakened immune system: HIV
  3. Vomiting and diarrhoea: Salmonella
  4. Yellow/green discharge from penis/vagina: Gonorrhoea
  5. Anaemia: Malaria
  6. Purple/black spots on leaves: Rose Black Spot
  7. Blotches of discolouration on leaves: Tobacco Mosaic Virus

Highlight: Understanding the symptoms of different communicable diseases is crucial for early detection and proper treatment.

The page then delves into how the body defends itself against infection, focusing on the process of phagocytosis:

Vocabulary: Phagocytosis is the process by which certain immune cells engulf and destroy pathogens.

A detailed diagram illustrates the steps of phagocytosis:

  1. A white blood cell detects a pathogen
  2. The pathogen is engulfed, forming a phagosome
  3. Digestive enzymes are released into the phagosome
  4. The pathogen is destroyed

The guide also touches on other bodily defenses, such as:

  • Skin as a physical barrier
  • Mucus in the respiratory system
  • Acid in the stomach

Finally, the page introduces the concept of vaccination:

Definition: Vaccines are substances containing weakened or dead pathogens that stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells.

Key points about vaccines include:

  • They contain dead or weakened pathogens
  • Vaccines are detected by white blood cells
  • Memory cells are produced to recognize the pathogen
  • Antibodies are rapidly produced if the live pathogen infects the person later

The guide concludes by discussing the benefits and drawbacks of vaccination:

Benefits:

  • Provides immunity
  • Prevents illness
  • Contributes to herd immunity

Drawbacks:

  • May not always be effective
  • Can potentially cause mild illness

Quote: "Should everyone be vaccinated?" This question encourages readers to consider the broader implications of vaccination policies.

This comprehensive overview provides a solid foundation for understanding how the immune system fights viruses and other pathogens, as well as the importance of vaccination in public health.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

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4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user