Topics:
Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher
Type of Immunity from Colostrum and Anti-Tetanus Serum
Colostrum and anti-tetanus serum (ATS) provides:
- Active immunity
- Passive immunity — Correct Answer
- Innate immunity
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Passive immunity
Colostrum and anti-tetanus serum (ATS) provide passive immunity — ready-made antibodies are transferred without the recipient producing them.
Colostrum — Natural Passive Immunity
- Colostrum (first milk secreted after parturition) is extremely rich in IgG antibodies (also IgM, IgA).
- In cattle, sheep, and pigs, antibodies cannot cross the placenta (syndesmochorial/epitheliochorial placenta), so neonates are born agammaglobulinemic (no antibodies).
- They receive passive immunity exclusively through colostrum absorption in the first 24–36 hours of life.
- After 24–36 hours, the gut 'closes' (intestinal permeability decreases) → colostrum antibodies can no longer be absorbed intact.
- Example: A calf deprived of colostrum is highly susceptible to neonatal septicemia, scours, and pneumonia.
Anti-Tetanus Serum (ATS) — Artificial Passive Immunity
- ATS contains pre-formed anti-tetanus antibodies (antitoxin).
- Provides immediate (within hours) but temporary protection (weeks to months).
- Used in unvaccinated animals with tetanus-prone wounds.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Physiology
This multiple choice question is from Animal Physiology, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Physiology to strengthen your preparation.
