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When a person is bitten by a venomous snake, the snake injects a toxin into the person - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 7 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 7
When a person is bitten by a venomous snake, the snake injects a toxin into the person. Antivenom is injected as treatment. Antivenom contains antibodies against the... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When a person is bitten by a venomous snake, the snake injects a toxin into the person - AQA - A-Level Biology - Question 7 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how the treatment with antivenom works
Answer
Antivenom works by introducing specific antibodies into the bloodstream. These antibodies bind to the snake venom, neutralizing its toxic effects and facilitating its removal from the body. Essentially, the antivenom acts as a form of immediate defense, targeting the venom directly and preventing damage.
Step 2
Why is it essential to use passive immunity, rather than active immunity?
Answer
Passive immunity is essential in this context because it provides immediate protection against the toxin. Active immunity, which relies on the body to produce its own antibodies over time, would be too slow to counteract the effects of a venomous snake bite. In emergency situations, rapid intervention is crucial to prevent serious harm or death.