Final answer:
High-risk groups for foodborne illnesses include pregnant women, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Food can become contaminated through poor hygiene, cross-contamination, and incorrect temperature control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three groups considered high-risk for foodborne illnesses are:
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- Older adults
- People with weakened immune systems
Pregnant women are at higher risk because their immune systems are altered, which makes it harder to fight off infections and puts the health of both mother and unborn child at risk. Young children have underdeveloped immune systems, which cannot effectively protect them from infections. Older adults, typically those aged 65 and above, often have decreased immunity due to aging and pre-existing medical conditions. Also, people with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions like diabetes, liver disease, or those undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy are highly susceptible to foodborne diseases.
It's important to note that food can become contaminated via various pathways. Pathogens like Norovirus, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, and Campylobacter can contaminate food through improper hygiene, cross-contamination, and inadequate temperature control during handling, preparation, or storage.