Powdered infant formulas pose potential risk for which patient group?

Powdered infant formulas pose potential risk for which patient group?

• A. Healthy term infants
• B. Immunocompromised patients
• C. Adults
• D. Elderly

Answer: (B)

Powdered infant formulas are not sterile and can be contaminated with bacteria such as Cronobacter and Salmonella. Infections from these pathogens can be particularly severe in newborns with immature or compromised immune systems. Therefore, the group at risk among the options is immunocompromised patients, since their defenses are reduced and they are more vulnerable to serious infection. Healthy term infants and adults are less at risk when formulas are prepared and handled properly, and the elderly aren’t the typical target population for this product in the same context.

Powdered infant formulas are not sterile and can be contaminated with bacteria such as Cronobacter and Salmonella. Infections from these pathogens can be particularly severe in newborns with immature or compromised immune systems. Therefore, the group at risk among the options is immunocompromised patients, since their defenses are reduced and they are more vulnerable to serious infection. Healthy term infants and adults are less at risk when formulas are prepared and handled properly, and the elderly aren’t the typical target population for this product in the same context.