Active Artificial Immunity — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Active artificial immunity
Hepatitis B vaccination provides active artificial immunity. It is active because the vaccine stimulates the recipient's own adaptive immune system to generate hepatitis B-specific responses, including anti-HBs antibodies and immunological memory. It is artificial because exposure to the antigen occurs through deliberate vaccination rather than natural infection. Passive artificial immunity would be provided by hepatitis B immunoglobulin, which supplies pre-formed antibodies and gives temporary protection. Active natural immunity follows infection, while passive natural immunity results from maternal antibody transfer. Innate immunity is non-specific and present independently of vaccination.
Reference: UK Health Security Agency. Immunisation against infectious disease: The Green Book, Chapter 1, Immunity and how vaccines work. January 2021. https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5ff49153d3bf7f65de80157d/Greenbook_chapter_1_Jan21.pdf