Nosocomial and Healthcare Associated infections

Track 13: Opportunistic Infections

Opportunistic infection is an infection caused by pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi or protozoa that take advantage of an opportunity that is not normally available such as a host with a weakened immune system, a modified micro biota (like disturbed Intestinal flora) or violated the integumentary barriers. Many of these pathogens do not cause disease in a healthy host that is a normal immune system. However, a compromised immune system, penetrating injury or lack of competition from normal commensals presents an opportunity for the pathogen to infect.