What is the term for immunity that is not naturally acquired?

The term for immunity that is not naturally acquired is referred to as artificially acquired immunity. This type of immunity is obtained through deliberate exposure to an antigen, such as through vaccination or the administration of antibodies. Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce a response without causing the disease itself, thus providing immunity against specific pathogens.

Artificially acquired immunity can be distinguished from naturally acquired immunity, which develops through infection by pathogens and the body’s natural immune response. This distinction is important in the study of immunology, as it highlights the different pathways through which immunity can be established. Understanding these types of immunity is crucial in both clinical and public health settings, especially in the development and deployment of vaccines.