The Risk of infection describes the Probability of becoming infected with a pathogen - for example with viruses, bacteria or parasites.
Factors that influence the risk:
- Type of pathogen (some are more easily transferable than others)
- Transmission path (e.g. droplets, blood, sexual contact, contaminated food)
- Protective measures (e.g. condoms, vaccinations, hygiene)
- State of health the person concerned (a weakened immune system increases the risk)
Examples:
- Unprotected sexual intercourse can increase the risk of infection for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) mean.
- Vaccination or consistent safer sex measures can significantly reduce the risk.
