Question

What is a critical advantage for Caleb the next time he encounters this antigen?

1) Anamnestic (memory) responses and future vaccinations to augment the response
2) Rates of ear infections (otitis media) are decreasing in the U.S.
3) Innate immune components will be more abundant and quicker to respond
4) Total immunity to the antigen once exposed and defeated by the body
5) New, more potent antibiotics may be available as therapeutics to minimize need for immune responses

Answer 1

Caleb's critical advantage upon encountering the antigen again is the quick and strong anamnestic (memory) response of his adaptive immune system, facilitated by memory cells created from vaccination or past exposure, thus preventing the disease from recurring.

Step-by-step explanation:

The critical advantage for Caleb the next time he encounters this antigen is the presence of an anamnestic (memory) response. This response is part of the adaptive immune system and allows for an efficient and rapid reaction upon re-exposure to a previously encountered pathogen. When exposed for the first time, the body generates a primary immune response which involves the creation of memory cells. These cells remember the specific antigens and enable the body to launch a stronger and quicker response to future infections. As memory cells can die off, booster vaccinations might be required to keep the immune response effective.

After a secondary exposure to the same pathogen, these memory cells enable the body to mount a strong, fast immune response, often before the pathogen can cause significant damage or symptoms. This means that the individual might not even notice the infection. By preventing the disease from manifesting, the immunological memory conferred by previous exposure or vaccination essentially spares the individual from the discomfort and dangers of the disease.