Which patient population is most at risk for developing infections?

Immunocompromised individuals are indeed the patient population most at risk for developing infections due to their weakened immune systems. This compromised state may result from various factors, including chronic illnesses, certain medications (like immunosuppressants or chemotherapy), or conditions such as HIV/AIDS. Because their immune response is diminished, they are less capable of fighting off pathogens, making them highly susceptible to infections that a healthy individual would typically withstand.

In contrast, while young adults, healthy children, and even active elderly individuals can experience infections, they generally possess stronger immune systems that offer more effective defense mechanisms against pathogens. Thus, the heightened vulnerability of immunocompromised individuals distinctly places them at the highest risk for developing infections.