Immunosuppression is a decrease in the immune system’s activity or effectiveness. Immunosuppression can happen as a negative reaction to the treatment of other illnesses or as a result of the immunosuppressive effects of some immune system components on other immune system components. Some people who have a weakened immune system, who are immunocompromised are more likely to get sick for a longer period.
Adenovirus (HAdV), cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are major causes of morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed individuals. After primary infection, these viruses may remain latent and then occur through immunosuppression. Infection is common with seroprevalence rates increasing steadily from 65% among 40 to 49 year olds to 91% in those aged 80 years or older.