Massachusetts State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of acquired immunity?

1. It is fully inherited

2. It develops through exposure to diseases

3. It does not require vaccinations

4. It persists for life without reinforcement

The correct answer is: It develops through exposure to diseases

Acquired immunity is characterized by the body’s ability to develop a specific immune response after exposure to pathogens or through vaccinations. This type of immunity is not present at birth; instead, it is acquired over time as the immune system encounters specific antigens related to various infections. Following exposure, the immune system adapts and remembers these pathogens, allowing for a quicker and more efficient response upon subsequent encounters. This adaptive nature of acquired immunity is crucial because it can lead to long-lasting protection against specific diseases, which vaccinations aim to stimulate by mimicking an infection. In contrast, traits such as being fully inherited pertain to innate immunity, and options that state that acquired immunity does not require vaccinations or persists for life without reinforcement do not accurately describe the nature of this immunity. Vaccinations are a significant method of developing acquired immunity, and while some acquired immune responses can last for many years, they may not always be lifelong without potential boosters or reinforcement.