What is one benefit of natural immunity in newborns?

Natural immunity in newborns is primarily characterized by the immediate protection it provides against infections. This protection is largely due to antibodies that the infant acquires from the mother, particularly during pregnancy and through breast milk after birth. These maternal antibodies, especially immunoglobulin G (IgG), cross the placenta and help shield the newborn from various pathogens right from the moment of birth, serving as a crucial defense mechanism while the baby's immune system is still developing.

This immediate protection is vital because newborns are more vulnerable to infections due to their immature immune systems. Thus, having this ready-made immune response allows them to fend off certain infections effectively during the early days of life before their own immune system can mount a response.

The other options focus on various aspects of immunity, but they do not encapsulate this immediate protective benefit that is vital for newborns. The option about developing antibodies after exposure highlights an active response that can take time to develop, while vaccinations relate to artificially acquired immunity rather than natural immunity. Finally, the idea that natural immunity requires initial exposure to diseases contrasts with the essence of maternal immunity, which provides protection without the baby having to encounter pathogens directly first.