Photo AI
Strict hygiene practices are followed in the care of newborns, whereas hygiene practices in the care of older babies are less emphasised - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 20
Strict hygiene practices are followed in the care of newborns, whereas hygiene practices in the care of older babies are less emphasised. Which of the following is ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Strict hygiene practices are followed in the care of newborns, whereas hygiene practices in the care of older babies are less emphasised - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 20 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which of the following is the best reason for this difference?
Answer
The best reason for the difference in hygiene practices between newborns and older babies is option (B): Prokaryotic cells are not identified as antigens in early development.
Explanation:
Newborns have developing immune systems that are more vulnerable to infections. As they grow, their immune systems mature and start to recognize and fight off pathogens more effectively, reducing the need for stringent hygiene practices. In early development, their adaptive immune response is not fully developed, which makes exposure to certain organisms less threatening.
Other Options Analysis:
- (A) suggests that vaccinations negate the need for personal hygiene, which is misleading; hygiene is still important regardless of vaccinations.
- (C) focuses on antibiotic treatments, which do not directly justify the difference in hygiene practices.
- (D) argues for early exposure benefiting immune systems, but it does not relate directly to the practice of hygiene in caring for newborns versus older babies.