What is an example of artificial passive immunity?

Artificial passive immunity occurs when pre-formed antibodies are transferred to an individual, providing immediate but temporary protection against specific pathogens. Receiving antivenom for a snakebite represents this type of immunity because antivenom contains antibodies that neutralize venom, providing immediate defense against the harmful effects of the snake bite.

In this case, the antibodies are produced in another organism (such as horses) and transferred to the individual experiencing the snakebite, giving them prompt immunity without requiring the individual’s immune system to produce the antibodies itself. This contrasts with other forms of immunity, such as vaccination, where the body is exposed to a harmless antigen to stimulate its own immune response, or breastfeeding, where antibodies are passed naturally through breast milk.