What is the relationship between diphtheria and naturally acquired immunity?

A case of diphtheria leading to naturally acquired active immunity is based on the body's immunological response to the infection. When a person is infected with the diphtheria bacterium, the immune system recognizes the pathogens and mounts an immune response. This involves the production of specific antibodies that target the diphtheria toxin and bacteria. As a result, following recovery from the infection, the individual typically retains memory cells that can respond more rapidly and effectively to future exposures to the same bacterium. This is the essence of naturally acquired active immunity, where active participation of the immune system in response to a pathogen leads to long-lasting protection.

The other options delve into concepts regarding immune responses, but they do not accurately describe the relationship with diphtheria and immunity. For instance, passive immunity refers to the transfer of antibodies from one individual to another, which is not what occurs in a natural diphtheria infection. Additionally, the assertion that diphtheria has no effect on immunity overlooks the critical immune response activated during the infection. The idea that diphtheria can only be prevented by vaccination neglects the fact that natural infection can also lead to active immunity, albeit through a different mechanism than vaccination. Understanding these concepts clarifies