Assertion (A): Immunity to chickenpox is considered as acquired immunity. Reason (R): Immunity that is inherited from parents is considered as acquired immunity (a) Both \(\mathrm{A}\) and \(\mathrm{R}\) are true and \(\mathrm{R}\) is the correct explanation for \(\mathrm{A}\). (b) Both \(\mathrm{A}\) and \(\mathrm{R}\) are true and \(\mathrm{R}\) is not the correct explanation for \(\mathrm{A}\). (c) \(\mathrm{A}\) is true and \(\mathrm{R}\) is false (d) \(\mathrm{A}\) is false and \(\mathrm{R}\) is true

When we talk about adaptive immunity, we refer to the sophisticated system that our bodies develop as a defense against specific pathogens we encounter during our lifetime. Unlike innate immunity, which is the first line of defense we are born with, adaptive immunity is about the tailored response our body crafts after being exposed to an infectious agent, like bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms.

Adaptive immunity involves both T cells and B cells, which are types of white blood cells. B cells can produce antibodies that latch onto specific invaders. T cells, on the other hand, can kill infected cells directly or help orchestrate the overall immune response. One of the key features of adaptive immunity is its ability to remember past infections, which is why, after you get sick with certain diseases, you're less likely to catch them again. This is also the basis for how vaccines work: they introduce a safe version of the pathogen to your body, so your immune system can learn to fight it off without the risk of actual disease.

Now let's explore innate immunity, also known as natural or nonspecific immunity. Think of it as your body's first responder to invaders; it's the immediate defense system that activates as soon as a pathogen tries to enter your body. Innate immunity includes physical barriers such as the skin and the mucous membranes, as well as various types of cells like phagocytes and macrophages that can ingest and neutralize invaders.

Additionally, it also involves the release of chemicals, such as interferons and the complement system, which have various functions in halting infection. Innate immunity is non-specific, meaning it doesn't target specific kinds of pathogens. It's also noteworthy that innate immunity doesn't have memory; unlike adaptive immunity, it responds to repeated infections with the same general response each time.

Moving on to chickenpox immunity, which is often used as a prime example of acquired immunity. Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a disease most people encounter in childhood. Once you have had chickenpox, your body's adaptive immune system kicks in and remembers the virus. If you're exposed again, your body is typically able to fight off the virus using memory cells, preventing a second episode of chickenpox.

Moreover, this is where vaccines play a critical role. The chickenpox vaccine contains a weakened form of the virus, which stimulates the adaptive immune system to develop immunity without causing the disease itself. This kind of immunity is long-lasting and possibly lifelong. Therefore, when you receive the vaccine or survive the illness, your body acquires immunity, rather than inheriting it from your parents, making the assertion that chickenpox immunity is an acquired immunity absolutely correct.