35 Phenomenal Immune System Facts For Kids To Learn
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The immune system is the human body's way of protecting itself.
The immune system is an intricate network of cells, tissues, and organs that operate together to safeguard the body from illness and infection. Through its many elements, such as the lymph nodes and spleen, the human immune system fights against pathogens and protects against many diseases!
The immune system is divided into two parts, the innate immune system, and the adaptive immune system. The innate immune system is always active and responds quickly to defend against invading pathogens.
The adaptive immune system takes longer to respond, but it can remember and recognize specific pathogens, which allows it to mount a stronger response the next time it encounters them. Let's discuss the different components of the immune system and how they work together to protect us from diseases!
How The Immune System Works
The human body has its own way of protecting itself. The immune system makes sure that human beings can sustain themselves through small infections.
The human immune system consists of many pillars and while it can protect humans from certain pathogens, there are ways in which an immune response can be influenced by external factors. Let's learn all about the human immune system!
The immune system is the human body's way of sustaining and protecting itself.
It consists of many germ-fighting cells and tissues, which call for an immune response every time the body is being attacked by any foreign bodies such as bacteria, germs, parasites, or any other type of pathogens.
At the same time, there are certain bacteria that the immune system is not equipped to fight on its own.
In such cases, there are some man-made solutions, such as vaccines, that can be administered in order to save a person from harm's way.
These fighting cells can provide both generalized as well as specific immunity, depending on the nature of the infection.
The basic fighting cells are the white blood cells, which can further be divided into three types.
These white blood cells are developed in the bone marrow of the human body and initiate appropriate responses in case of an infection or attack from any pathogen.
Pathogens that attack the human body are known as antigens.
Protein components that fight off and kill antigens are known as antibodies.
White blood cells can be divided into lymphocytes and phagocytes.
Lymphocytes divide to form B cells and T cells.
B cells are formed in the bone marrow whereas T cells mature in the thymus.
The name 'killer T cells' arise from the fact that these cells not only kill the pathogens but are also equipped to kill the infected cells within the infected area.
On the other hand, another type of T cell called 'helper T cells' assists the B cells in making antibodies so antigens can be fought off!
The Importance Of The Immune System
In the course of our lives, we are exposed to many pathogens. While precaution does help in some cases, it is not always possible to be completely guarded against germs and bacteria. It is for this reason that the human immune system becomes very important.
The immune system consists of many organs and components.
It consists of lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, thymus, lymphatic vessels, and more.
In the case of any infection, elements of the immune system work together to rid the body of pathogens.
Such immune responses could be in the form of fever, swelling, or many other bodily issues.
The human immune system consists of two parts.
These parts are the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.
The innate immune system refers to the process through which some cells and organs in the human body provide general protection against pathogens that may be present.
Such responses are general and hence, do not have any powerful impact against more aggressive pathogens.
It provides immunity on the basic level, such as denying some pathogens to enter 'good cells'.
On the other hand, the adaptive immune system refers to the machinery which is developed by the human body after it has encountered a certain pathogen.
In such cases, the body develops immunological memory, which helps it in responding to pathogens appropriately.
It is an acquired immunity, which helps the body in sustaining itself when any trouble-causing germs enter it.
Undertsanding Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune diseases are often misunderstood. Hence, we must understand them and know how to recover!
An autoimmune disorder is an illness in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body.
There are various types of autoimmune disorders, and they can affect any organ or tissue in the body.
Some common autoimmune disorders include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Autoimmune diseases can be very dangerous and immediate care should be administered to those who are diagnosed with such conditions.
Facts For Kids About Our Immune System
There are certain things that everyone can incorporate into their lives to make their immune system better!
One of the best ways of developing immunity is by making sure that you take good care of yourself.
According to studies, avoiding stress is a great way to maintain a healthy immune system.
Some of the most effective ways would be to exercise daily and eat healthy and nutritious foods.
Allergies are induced by the immune system. Immune responses can be mild, from coughing and a runny nose to a deadly response known as anaphylaxis.
Another important factor is making sure that all of your vaccinations are up to date.
The first vaccine was created in the late 18th century.
Vaccines help the body in developing immunity against a certain pathogen.
It contains certain elements which make the body think that it has been struck by the real disease, even though it hasn't.
Hence, the body works to defeat it, therefore giving you immunity in case you are exposed to a particular disease-causing pathogen.
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Sources
https://kids.kiddle.co/Immune_system
https://www.ducksters.com/science/biology/immune_system.php
https://www.coolkidfacts.com/immune-system/
https://www.factsjustforkids.com/human-body-facts/immune-system-facts-for-kids/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/ways-to-keep-your-immune-system-healthy/
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Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature
Shirin BiswasBachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature
With a degree in English from Amity University, Noida, Shirin has won awards for oratory, acting, and creative writing. She has a wealth of experience as an English teacher, editor, and writer, having previously worked at Quizzy and Big Books Publishing. Her expertise lies in editing study guides for children and creating engaging content.
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Niyati ParabBachelor of Commerce
With a background in digital marketing, Niyati brings her expertise to ensure accuracy and authenticity in every piece of content. She has previously written articles for MuseumFacts, a history web magazine, while also handling its digital marketing. In addition to her marketing skills, Niyati is fluent in six languages and has a Commerce degree from Savitribai Phule Pune University. She has also been recognized for her public speaking abilities, holding the position of Vice President of Education at the Toastmasters Club of Pune, where she won several awards and represented the club in writing and speech contests at the area level.
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