What's a "High Risk Group"

The human body is well equipped to deal with many foodborne illnesses with those illnesses being an inconvience for most people. Certain groups however, are more likely to develop serious complications from foodborne illness and disease than other individuals.

Complications may lead to hospitalization or even death. These individuals are classified as high risk individuals.

Who are high risk individuals

Older adults, pregnant women, very young children and people with weakened immune systems are classified as being at high risk and need to be extra careful with the food they eat. Immune systems may be suppressed by medical treatments or by chronic illnesses such as AIDS, cancer, diabetes or liver or kidney disease. Those suffering from alcoholism or decreased stomach acid due to surgery or regular use of antacids are also at increased risk.

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Infants and Children

Young children and infants are at a higher risk for foodborne illness and disease because their immune systems have not fully developed to protect them from harmful bacteria and viruses.

A bottle-fed infant is at higher risk for severe infections with Salmonella or other bacteria that can grow in a bottle of warm formula if it is left at room temperature for many hours.  Particular care is needed to be sure the baby's bottle is cleaned and disinfected and that leftover milk formula or juice is not held in the bottle for many hours.

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The Elderly

The Elderly are at a higher risk for hospitalization for some foodborne illnesses and diseases because immune systems generally weaken as we get older.

It is important that the Elderly protect themselves against those illnesses that can cause them the greatest complications.

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Impaired Immunity

Those with an impaired or suppressed immune system are at a higher risk for foodborne illness and disease because the immune system can no longer protect you from many harmful bacteria and viruses. The following conditions are indicative of an impaired immune system: cancer, diabetes and auto-immune disorders, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, certain medicines such as corticosteroids, medications taken after an organ transplant, splenectomy and drug or alcohol abuse or withdrawal.

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Pregnant Women

You and your growing fetus are at high risk from some foodborne illnesses because during pregnancy your immune system is weakened, which makes it harder for your body to fight off harmful foodborne micro-organisms. Your unborn baby's immune system is not developed enough to fight off harmful foodborne micro-organisms. For both mother and baby, foodborne illness can cause serious health problems - or even death.

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HIV & AIDS

HIV / AIDS Patients are at a higher risk for foodborne illness and disease because the immune system can no longer protect you from many harmful bacteria and viruses.

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Other High Risk Individuals

In addition to the previous listed conditions, the following diseases or conditions will automatically classify you as a potential high risk individual for foodborne illnesses.