Final answer:
Artificially acquired passive immunity involves the transfer of antibodies or activated T cells to an individual to provide immediate, short-term immunity against specific pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Artificially acquired passive immunity results from the administration of a specific antibodies or activated T cells. This type of immunity can be given as prophylaxis after potential exposure to a pathogen or as treatment for an active infection. Artificial passive immunity does not prompt an active immune response within the individual; instead, the treatment relies on the transfer of antibodies produced by another individual or animal that has already developed immunity against a specific pathogen.
For instance, this method is used for post-exposure prevention against diseases like rabies and hepatitis, as well as for treating ongoing infections such as cytomegalovirus in immunocompromised patients. The treatment provides immediate protection, however, it's important to note that it affords only short-term immunity since the transferred antibodies degrade over time without the development of a memory immune response.