Passive immunity is a type of immunity that occurs when a person receives antibodies from another source rather than producing them on their own. This can happen naturally, such as when a mother passes antibodies to her baby through breast milk or the placenta during pregnancy. It can also be acquired artificially, for example, through injections of antibody-rich serum. Unlike active immunity, which develops after exposure to a pathogen or vaccination, passive immunity provides immediate protection but is temporary. The transferred antibodies eventually break down, and the body does not create a lasting immune response. This makes passive immunity useful in certain medical situations, such as treating infections or providing protection to individuals with weakened immune systems.