Which characteristic describes a susceptible host?

A susceptible host is best described as an individual experiencing a compromised immune response. This characteristic means that such individuals have a weakened ability to defend against infectious agents, making them more vulnerable to infections. Factors contributing to a compromised immune response may include underlying health conditions, medication that suppresses immunity, aging, or malnutrition.

When the immune system is unable to effectively combat pathogens, it results in a higher likelihood of infections. In contrast, healthy individuals with strong immunity actively resist infections, meaning they do not fit the profile of a susceptible host. Similarly, those genetically predisposed to infections may have an increased risk but do not inherently equate to susceptibility without other factors affecting their immune response.