Who Is Most at Risk of Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning can affect anyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable to severe illness and complications due to weaker or changing immune systems.
1. Infants and Young Children
Children have developing immune systems and smaller body sizes, making them more susceptible to dehydration and serious infections from contaminated food or water.
2. Elderly People
As people age, immune defenses weaken, and underlying health conditions become more common. This increases the risk of severe illness and slower recovery from foodborne infections.
3. Pregnant Women
Pregnancy alters the immune system, increasing susceptibility to certain bacteria such as Listeria. Foodborne infections during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or serious illness in newborns.
4. People with Weakened Immune Systems
Individuals with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients, transplant recipients, and those on immune-suppressing medications are at higher risk of severe foodborne illness.
5. People with Chronic Medical Conditions
Diabetes, kidney disease, and liver disease can increase the severity and complications of food poisoning.
Key Message
High-risk groups should take extra precautions with food handling, avoid high-risk foods, and seek medical care early if symptoms develop.