The whole body
Nervous system
Brain
Eye
Ear
Nose
Mouth and teeth
Skin and touch
Heart
Blood and circulation
Spleen
Throat and voice
Lungs
Baby teeth
Digestion
Liver
Gallbladder
Pancreas
Kidneys
Reproductive system
Pregnancy
Glands and hormones
Skeleton
Skull
Spine
Hand
Knee
Foot
MusclesHow does the body fight germs?
The body has a defense army (just a comparison). First, skin and mucus keep germs out. If one gets through, white blood cells attack. Some keep a "photo" of the germ so next time the body defends itself faster. That is how vaccines work.
Drag to turn. Pinch or use the mouse wheel to zoom. Tap a part to see what it does.
Questions people ask
How do vaccines work?
A vaccine shows the body part of a germ, or a weakened germ, without causing the disease. Defense cells learn to recognize it and keep a memory. If the real germ shows up, the body reacts quickly.
Why do we get a fever?
Fever is a defense reaction: the brain raises body temperature, which hinders some germs and speeds up defenses. In children, a high or long-lasting fever, or one with other warning signs, should be checked by a doctor.
What are swollen glands?
They are swollen lymph nodes, small filters spread around the body in the neck, armpits and groin. They swell when fighting a nearby infection. If they stay large for weeks, see a doctor. They are not in this 3D model.
What is appendicitis?
Inflammation of the appendix. The pain usually starts around the belly button and then moves to the lower right of the belly, getting worse over time, sometimes with fever and nausea. It is an emergency: get medical care.
Sources
This text was written using these references:
- Lymphatic System · National Cancer Institute (SEER Training)
This content has not been medically reviewed.