Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

What is the definition of a susceptible host?

1. A person likely to get an infection or disease due to weak body defenses

2. A person with a strong immune system

3. A healthcare worker treating infectious patients

4. A person who has recently recovered from an infection

The correct answer is: A person likely to get an infection or disease due to weak body defenses

A susceptible host is defined as an individual who is likely to get an infection or disease due to having weak body defenses. This definition focuses on the vulnerability of the person’s immune system or overall health, which makes them more prone to infections when exposed to pathogens. Factors such as age, underlying health conditions, nutritional status, and other immunocompromising factors can increase susceptibility. Understanding this concept is vital in the context of infection control, as identifying susceptible hosts allows healthcare providers and others to implement appropriate preventive measures to protect these individuals from infections and diseases. The other options do not align with the definition of a susceptible host. A person with a strong immune system is less likely to be considered susceptible. A healthcare worker, while they may be at risk for exposure, does not inherently constitute a susceptible host without additional factors influencing their immune status. Similarly, a person who has recently recovered from an infection may have some immunity but does not fit the criteria of a susceptible host due to their potential resilience against reinfection in the short term. Therefore, option A accurately describes the concept.