Why are Opportunistic Infections Important in Epidemiology?
Opportunistic infections are significant in epidemiology for several reasons:
Burden of Disease: They contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality, especially in immunocompromised populations. Indicator of Immune Status: The presence of certain opportunistic infections can indicate the level of immune compromise. Public Health Impact: Understanding the epidemiology of these infections aids in developing prevention and treatment strategies tailored to at-risk populations.