Susceptible Host

Infection is the result of complex interactions between host and pathogenic organisms. While the numbers, pathogenicity, virulence, and antigenicity of organisms are important determinants; the establishment of infection and its severity relate to the state of host defense mechanisms.¹ Some susceptible hosts become colonized but remain asymptomatic. Others progress from colonization to symptomatic disease, either immediately or following a period of asymptomatic latency.