The innate system is your child’s first response, and it is made up of the skin, corneal and mucous membranes. These line the respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts. They generate physical barriers that assist in protecting the body against harmful germs and parasites, inclusive of worms and cancer cells.

Special proteins called antibodies are made by the acquired immune system with help from the innate system. These antibodies are made by B lymphocytes cells when the body is unprotected from attackers. Antibody formation takes several days but, after the initial exposure the immune system is able to identify attackers and fight them. 

Immunisations train your child’s immune system to form antibodies in order to protect them from harmful diseases. The cells of both immune systems can be found in numerous organs of the body. These include the adenoid glands (two glands located at the back of the nasal passage), the bone marrow (the soft, spongy tissue found in bone cavities) and the lymph nodes (bean-like structures found all over the body which connects the lymphatic vessels).

Lymphatic vessels make up a network of channels situated over the entire body.
They carry lymphocytes to the lymphoid organs and blood stream to supress infection. When fighting an infection, the lymph nodes can become swollen and painful.

What is the definition of a healthy immune system?

A healthy immune system is one where both the innate and adaptive or (acquired immunity) are capable of recognizing and attacking invading pathogens in a timely and efficient manner.

When is the immune system compromised?

A compromised immune system is one where either the innate immunity, acquired immunity or both are dysfunctional and either cannot effectively recognise or attack the invading pathogens.

This compromise can be due to; a virus in the case of HIV/AIDS, extremes of age ( babies and the elderly) and other systemic diseases ( e.g. diabetes meillitus, renal disease, sickle cell disease ) as well as certain medications (e.g. steroids)

What can be done to preserve or repair the immune system?

A healthy immune system belongs to a healthy person. This includes a lifestyle inclusive of sufficient exercise (at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily), regular consumption of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats as well as a minimal use of ultra-processed foods.

 Additionally, there is increased evidence that healthy gut microbes play an important role in immunity. Foods high in probiotics such as yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and the use of probiotic supplements can assist in this.

Antimicrobials are often used to help the body fight infections, however, the type is specific to the cause of infection. For example, antibiotics can only fight infection that are caused by bacteria, it cannot fight those caused by viruses, fungi and parasites. On the other hand antiviral drugs are used to combat viral infections but not those caused by bacteria, fungi or parasites.

Let us work hard and treat our immune system with kindness, remembering that “A healthy outside starts from the inside” Robert Urich.