Immune system
The immune system is a network of cells and proteins that defends the body against infection.
If bacteria, a virus or other foreign substance enters the body, white blood cells identify it and produce antibodies.
The immune system in babies
A baby’s immune system is immature when they are born. It develops throughout life as they are exposed to different germs that can cause disease.
Antibodies are passed from mother to baby through the placenta during the third trimester (last 3 months of pregnancy). This gives the baby some protection when they are born. The type and amount of antibodies passed to the baby depends on the mother’s own level of immunity.
AFTER BIRTH
How to boost your baby’s immune system
The passive immunity passed on from the mother at birth also doesn’t last long and will start to decrease in the first few weeks and months after birth.