Latent infection

Definition

A latent infection is an infection where the infectious agent (such as a virus or bacterium) remains dormant or hidden within the body without causing symptoms. The infected person may not be aware of being infected but can still transmit the disease to others.

Related terms

Active infection: An active infection refers to an ongoing and symptomatic infection where the infectious agent is actively replicating and causing noticeable symptoms.

Transmission: Transmission refers to the transfer or spread of an infectious disease from one individual to another through various means such as direct contact, airborne particles, or contaminated objects.

Immune response: The immune response is the body's defense mechanism against foreign substances like pathogens. It involves various cells and molecules working together to eliminate infections.