Susceptible population

Definition

The groups most vulnerable to waterborne pathogens, including immunocompromised, elderly, smokers, and people with chronic lung disease.

Legionella often impacts immunocompromised people who never consented to the risks created by system design and operation. The susceptible population is a defined Legionella risk factor alongside temperature, stagnation, biofilm, and aerosol generation. Recognizing who is exposed is part of treating Legionella as a public health responsibility.

Related concepts

Aerosolization · Legionella · Systems thinking

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🛠️ operations