What is the first stage of infection?

The first stage of infection is the incubation period. During this stage, the pathogen enters the body and begins to multiply, but the individual shows no recognizable symptoms of illness. This period can vary in length, depending on the type of pathogen and the individual's immune response. It is crucial because this is when the infection establishes itself before symptoms appear. Understanding this stage is essential for recognizing the timeline of infection and its progression, which is vital for effective diagnosis and treatment.

The prodromal stage follows the incubation period and is characterized by early, nonspecific symptoms indicating that infection is present. The active stage involves the full manifestation of symptoms associated with the illness. Convalescence is the period of recovery after the infection when the individual begins to heal. Each of these stages plays a role in the overall timeline of an infection, but the incubation stage is distinguished as the initial phase where the infection begins.