Page 16 - project_booklet

P A R T 1
What is immune system?

1. The immune system is a complicated network of cells and proteins that fight infection in the body.
2. The immune system keeps a record of every germ (microbe) it has ever killed. This way, if the microbe
comes back into the body, the immune system can quickly recognize it and kill it.
3. Immune system dysfunction can result in allergies, illnesses, immunodeficiencies, and autoimmune
disorders.
There are two parts to the immune system:
The innate immune system and the adaptive immune system.
The innate immune system is something you are born with.
The adaptive immune system occurs when your body is exposed to microorganisms or substances
generated by bacteria.
These two immune systems cooperate.
Parts of the immune system:
White blood cells: White blood cells are the most important components of the immune system. White
blood cells travel all over your body looking for microbes like bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungus.
They launch an immune attack when they find them.
Antibodies: Antibodies aid the body in combating microorganisms and the toxins (poisons) they create.
Complement System: The complement system consists of proteins whose functions supplement the work
of antibodies.
Lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a delicate network of tubes that run throughout the body.
Spleen: The spleen is a blood-filtering organ that eliminates germs as well as old or damaged red blood
cells.
Bone marrow: The spongy tissue located inside your bones is called bone marrow.
Thymus: The thymus filters and monitors the contents of your blood.
Is fever an immune system response?
Fever (a rise in body temperature) is a normal immune system reaction to several illnesses. Temperature
increases can kill some bacteria and initiate the body's mending process.
How do antibiotics aid in the fight against infections?
Antibiotics can assist your immune system in fighting bacterial infections.
However, antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Antibiotics were created in order to kill or
inhibit specific germs. This means that an antibiotic that treats a skin illness caused by one bacteria may
not treat diarrhea caused by another.

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