Baby immunity develops during the stages of growth, as the immune system is formed in the fetus during pregnancy, and the baby acquires immunity from its mother through the placenta during pregnancy and through breastfeeding after birth. The immune system also produces its own antibodies every time it is exposed to infection with a virus or bacteria, but it takes time for this immunity to fully develop.
Immune System:
It is a network of cells and proteins that defend the body against infection. The immune system consists of a network of cells, tissues, and organs that produce white blood cells that work together to protect the body.
Factors That Boost Immunity in Infants:
Antibodies are transmitted from the mother to the fetus through the placenta during the last three months of pregnancy, and this gives him some protection when he is born. The type and number of antibodies transmitted to him depends on the mother’s level of immunity.
After birth, more antibodies are passed to the baby from breast milk, but infants' immune systems are still not as strong as adults, so infants born prematurely are at greater risk of infection because immune systems are not strong enough.
The most important factors that enhance immunity in infants:
- Breastfeeding: Mother's milk provides the necessary factors to protect the child from diseases, in addition to all the nutrients he needs, including essential fatty acids, unlike formula milk.
- Vaccines: help strengthen the child's immune system and keep him safe from some preventable diseases.
- Normal sleep: The immune system in general in infants and even adults is affected by the extent to which the body gets natural rest provided by sleep. It has been proven that lack of sleep negatively affects the health of the immune system, and results in a group of different health problems. the health of his immune system.