Antibodies

Antibodies

Antibodies

Naturally acquired passive immunity, also called congenital immunity develops when antibodies pass into the fetal circulation from the mothers blood stream via the placenta and umbilical cord. These antibodies, called maternal antibodies, remain with the child for about three to six months after birth. Certain antibodies such as measles antibodies, remain for 12 to 15 months.

Maternal antibodies are important in providing resistance to whooping cough, staphylococcal infections and viral respiratory diseases during first few months to the child. The predominant antibody is IgG.Maternal antibodies may also pass to the newborne through the first milk or colostrum. In this case IgA is the predominant antibody although IgG and IgM have also been found. These antibodies provide resistance to diseases of respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

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