Innate immunity 

Acquired immunity

1. It is a non−pathogen specific type of defense mechanism. 

1. It is a pathogen specific type of defense mechanism. 

2. It is inherited from parents and protects the individual since birth. 

2. It is acquired after the birth of an individual. 

3. It operates by providing barriers against the entry of foreign infectious agents. 

3. It operates by producing primary and secondary responses, which are mediated by B−lymphocytes and Tlymphocytes. 

4 It does not have a specific memory. 

4 It is characterized by an immunological memory. 

Active immunity 

Passive immunity 

1. It is a type of acquired immunity in which the body produces its own antibodies against diseasecausing antigens. 

1. It is a type of acquired immunity in which readymade antibodies are transferred from one individual to another.

2. It has a long lasting effect. 

2. It does not have long lasting effect. 

3. It is slow. It takes time in producing antibodies and giving responses. 

3. It is fast. It provides immediate relief. 

4. Injecting microbes through vaccination inside the body is an example of active immunity. 

4. Transfer of antibodies present in the mother’s milk to the infant is an example of passive immunity.