How is immunological memory maintained?

Immunological memory is maintained by vaccinations. Vaccinations introduce a specific pathogen into a person’s body. On receiving a vaccination, a person’s body produces antibodies that are specific to the pathogen introduced into their body. On eliminating the infection-causing pathogens from the body, some of the antibodies develop immunological memory. These antibodies remain in circulation in the body and maintain their memory many years after receiving the vaccination. In case of a repeat encounter with that specific pathogen, these antibodies are quick to recognize the pathogen and mount a rapid, robust, and more efficient defense against them.