Susceptible Host

A susceptible host is any individual whose immune system, age, underlying health condition, invasive medical device, or environment makes them more vulnerable to infection than a healthy adult. Susceptibility is one of the six links in the chain of infection and includes newborns, the elderly, immunocompromised patients, people with chronic disease, and those undergoing surgery or intensive care.

Hygiene standards are typically set to protect the most susceptible people who will use the environment, not the average person. Failing to consider host susceptibility can lead to hygiene programmes that appear adequate but leave vulnerable populations exposed.

Informs stricter disinfection protocols in neonatal units, ICUs, oncology wards, aged care facilities, dialysis centres and immunocompromised patient areas.