How is natural immunity acquired?

Natural immunity is acquired through exposure to pathogens. When a person comes into contact with a disease-causing organism, their immune system responds by producing antibodies specific to that pathogen. This process helps the body build memory cells, which provide long-term protection against future infections from the same pathogen.

While vaccination can stimulate the immune system and provide immunity, it does so artificially rather than through natural exposure. Inherited immunity refers to genetic factors that can affect an individual's immune response, but it is not classified as natural immunity in the context of how one acquires protection against illnesses. Eating healthy foods contributes to overall health and a well-functioning immune system, but it does not directly lead to the acquisition of immunity against specific pathogens.