What is the body's first response to infection?

The body's first response to infection primarily involves neutrophils. These white blood cells are typically the first to arrive at the site of an infection and play a critical role in the innate immune response. Neutrophils respond quickly to signals released by cells in distress, and they effectively engulf and destroy pathogens through a process called phagocytosis.

While phagocytes and macrophages are important components of the immune system, macrophages typically arrive after neutrophils and assist in cleaning up after the initial response. Antibodies are produced later in the immune response by B cells, as part of the adaptive immune response, and are specific to particular pathogens.

Thus, neutrophils are key players in the first line of defense, making them the correct answer in relation to the body's immediate response to infection.