Photo AI
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 antibodies directly into the bloodstream of the patient. These antibodies bind to the venom toxins, neutralizing them and preventing their harmful effects on the body. This process also aids in the destruction of the toxins, allowing the immune system to eliminate them more effectively.
Step 2
Explain why it is essential to use passive immunity, rather than active immunity.
Answer
Passive immunity is essential in this context because it provides immediate protection against the venom's effects. Active immunity, which typically requires time for the body to produce its own antibodies following exposure to a pathogen, would not be fast enough to counteract the rapid onset of symptoms caused by venom. In emergencies, such as snake bites, immediate intervention is critical.