Which term describes an individual with a competent immune system?

The term that describes an individual with a competent immune system is "immunocompetent." This term indicates that the person's immune system can effectively identify and respond to pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and other foreign substances, providing adequate protection against diseases.

Individuals who are immunocompetent produce the necessary antibodies and immune responses to safeguard their health, allowing them to maintain a level of homeostasis and resist infections efficiently. This ability is essential for overall health and is a hallmark of a functioning immune system.

In contrast, other terms like immunodeficient refer to individuals whose immune systems are compromised or not functioning optimally, leading to increased susceptibility to infections. Similarly, immunosuppressed individuals have reduced immune responses due to medical conditions, treatments, or medications that intentionally or unintentionally diminish the immune system's activity. Immunoreactive, while indicating a reaction from the immune system, does not specifically denote the competence or overall effectiveness of the immune response.

Thus, "immunocompetent" is the most accurate term for describing someone with a fully functioning and effective immune system.