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Abstract
Epidemiological models and studies of disease ecology typically ignore the role of
host condition and immunocompetence when trying to explain the distribution and dynamics
of infections and their impact on host dynamics. Recent research, however, indicates
that host susceptibility should be considered carefully if we are to understand the
mechanism by which parasite dynamics influence host dynamics and vice versa. Studies
in insects, fish, amphibians and rodents show that infection occurrence and intensity
are more probable and more severe in individuals with an underlying poor condition.
Moreover, infection itself results in further deterioration of the host and a 'vicious
circle' is created. We argue that this potential synergy between host susceptibility
and infection should be more widely acknowledged in disease ecology research.
Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.