3.2 Factors Affecting the Immune System Chapter 3 notes

General A vaccine is a special version of an antigen that gives you immunity against a disease (like a weakened form of a disease)

Origin of vaccines: Mary Montagu noticed women in Turkey infecting their children with a mild form of small pox Doctor Edward Jenner noticed that farmers who had cow pox never got small pox

Disorders of the immune system 1. Allergies  Unusually high sensitivity to some substance which acts like an antigen Substances that cause allergic reactions are called allergens  Symptoms include runny nose and watery eyes which are a side effect of a substance called histamines

Disorders of the immune system Antihistamines are taken to combat the effect  If the reaction is severe and a person goes into anaphylactic shock then needles with adrenaline are injected into the body

Disorders of the immune system 2. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) Caused by the HIV virus which attacks and destroys helper T cells so other pathogens can enter the body Mainly transmitted in body fluid (semen and blood)

Taking care of your immune system Eat a well balanced diet Maintain your personal hygiene Keep your home clean Avoid tobacco and other non-prescription drugs

Taking care of your immune system Get plenty of rest and exercise Keep your vaccinations up to date Do not engage in activities that involve sharing body fluids with others