Final answer:
Babies receive naturally acquired passive immunity through their mother's breast milk, which transfers antibodies and provides immediate protection against pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
A baby can receive a specific type of immunity known as naturally acquired passive immunity through the mother's breast milk.
This form of immunity occurs when antibodies produced in the mother's body are passed directly to the infant, providing protection against certain diseases and pathogens. Specifically, Secretory IgA antibodies are transferred, which are crucial for safeguarding the baby against infections in the early stages of life.
The breast milk, especially in the form known as colostrum, which is produced shortly after birth, is rich in these immunoglobulins.
These antibodies act as a temporary immune system for the baby as its own immune system continues to develop. The naturally acquired passive immunity that a baby gains from breastfeeding includes the immunological memory of the mother to the pathogens to which she has been previously exposed.