Which age group is most at risk for severe respiratory infections?

Infants are particularly vulnerable to severe respiratory infections due to several physiological and developmental factors. Their immune systems are still maturing, meaning they have not yet built up the range of antibodies necessary to combat various pathogens effectively. Additionally, their airways are smaller and less rigid, which can lead to more significant obstruction and respiratory distress if an infection occurs.

Infants also have a higher susceptibility to viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which can result in bronchiolitis and pneumonia, conditions that are rarely as severe in older age groups. The combination of an underdeveloped immune response and anatomical factors makes this age group especially at risk.

While adolescents, school-age children, and adults are also susceptible to respiratory infections, they generally have more robust immune responses and larger airways, which reduce their risk of experiencing severe complications from these infections compared to infants. Thus, infants represent the age group most at risk for severe respiratory infections.