What is the prodromal stage of infection?

The prodromal stage of infection refers to the initial phase where symptoms first begin to appear but are typically mild and nonspecific. During this stage, an individual may feel unwell and experience general symptoms such as fatigue, malaise, or low-grade fever, but the specific disease may not yet be identifiable. This phase is crucial as it marks the transition from health to illness, and understanding it can help in the early detection and management of infections. Identifying the prodromal stage can be particularly important in clinical settings, as it may prompt further investigation or preventive measures to control the spread of the infection.