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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 providing pre-formed antibodies that bind to the snake toxin. When these antibodies attach to the toxin, they neutralize its harmful effects, facilitating its destruction by the body's immune system. This is a rapid response and is crucial in preventing the immediate effects of the venom.
Step 2
Why is it essential to use passive immunity, rather than active immunity?
Answer
Passive immunity is essential in this case because active immunity, which involves the body generating its own antibodies, would take longer to develop. In a situation where time is critical—such as a snake bite—administering antivenom provides an immediate source of antibodies to combat the venom.