Final answer:
The immune system is responsible for guarding against infectious diseases. It comprises the innate and adaptive immune responses, with the former providing immediate, nonspecific defense and the latter offering specific, long-term protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
The immune system is the organ system primarily responsible for protecting your body from infectious diseases.
The immune system is a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that defend the body against pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms capable of causing disease. This system is divided into two main components: the innate immune system and the adaptive immune system. Innate immunity acts as the first line of defense and includes barriers such as skin and mucous, as well as responses like inflammation. The adaptive immune system provides a more specific response, tailoring its attack to specific pathogens and remembering them for a faster response upon re-exposure. This memory aspect leads to long-lasting immunity against previously encountered pathogens.
This system also includes specialized immune responses such as the neuroimmune system that protects the brain and spinal cord. The immune system is essential for maintaining health and protecting the body from various harms, including cancerous cells and infections. However, like any other system in the body, it can have disorders that impair its function, leading to increased vulnerability to diseases.