is a fever a specific or nonspecific defense mechanism?

Answer 1

Non-specific defense mechanism.
Damage to tissue by physical injury will trigger an inflammatory response.
Small blood vessels in the area will dilate and become leakier. This causes the redness and heat of the infected area. This enhances the migration of phagocytes into the area. Neutrophils arrive first, followed by monocytes that develop into macrophages. Clotting proteins seal off the infected area.
Injured cells release HISTAMINE which induces the dilation of the capillaries.
Sometimes white blood cells release chemicals called pyrogens. They act on the bodies thermostat and raise the temperature in an effort to kill the microorganism.

Answer 2

Non-specific: Fever is caused by Interleukin and Endotoxins. These cause the hypothalamus to raise the body temperature. The high body temp. causes storage of iron in liver, thus reducing the levels of iron,which is needed by the bacteria, in the body.

Fever is not caused or associated in any way with inflammation although that too is an example of non-specific defense.

Specific defense mechanisms involve T lymphocytes and antibodies ( produced by B lymphocytes).

Answer 3

I'll add that white blood cells are at their peak efficiency while the body is under the effects of a heathy fever.