Infants are a key focus in epidemiology due to several reasons:
1. Vulnerability: Infants have immature immune systems, making them susceptible to infectious diseases such as respiratory infections, gastrointestinal infections, and vaccine-preventable diseases. 2. Rapid Development: The first year of life is marked by rapid physical and cognitive development. Any adverse health events during this period can have long-lasting impacts. 3. High Mortality Rate: The infant mortality rate is a critical indicator of a population's overall health and development. High rates often reflect broader issues such as inadequate healthcare, poor nutrition, and socioeconomic disparities.
