The physical barriers of the immune system protect the body against pathogens in the following ways:
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Skin contains tightly packed cells - This minimizes the entry of pathogens by acting as a physical barrier.
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Skin is tough, flexible, and waterproof - These properties help prevent the penetration of pathogens and reduce the risk of infection.
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You cough when a pathogen enters your mouth - Coughing can help expel pathogens from the respiratory tract, protecting the body.
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You sneeze when a pathogen enters your nose - Sneezing expels air and mucus from the nose, which can help eliminate pathogens.
The statement “your nose produces oil to keep pathogens from entering the body through your nose” is not typically a recognized function of immune physical barriers, as the main protective mechanisms in the nose involve mucus and cilia rather than oil.
In summary, the physical barriers of the immune system include tightly packed skin cells, tough and waterproof skin, coughing, and sneezing as protective responses.