Infection Risk

Infection risk refers to the likelihood or probability of an individual or population becoming infected with a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. This risk can be influenced by various factors, including the mode of transmission of the pathogen, environmental conditions, individual susceptibility (which may be affected by age, health status, and immunocompetence), and presence of underlying medical conditions. Infection risk is assessed in epidemiology and public health to identify potential outbreaks, develop prevention strategies, and implement control measures. It is a crucial concept in healthcare settings, particularly concerning infection control practices, as it helps in predicting and reducing the incidence of infections in patients. Furthermore, understanding infection risk allows for the prioritization of vaccination and prophylactic measures in vulnerable populations.