Skip main navigation

What are the two types of immunity?

Regarding our bodies’ own immune systems, the two types are innate and adaptive, what we are born with and what we acquire through exposure to microbes.

Regarding how we develop immunity, the two types are active and passive. The first is when we actively develop antibodies through microbial exposure, and the second is when we passively receive antibodies through the transfer of preformed antibodies from an immune individual.

Related stories on FutureLearn

FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now