Recurrent Viral Infection (Reinfection)

Abstract

RECURRENT viral infection or reinfection is defined as infection occurring in persons with partial immunity acquired from previous experience with the same virus. This is in contrast to primary infection, which occurs in susceptible persons who are exposed to the virus for the first time. Either episode of infection may be clinically apparent or inapparent; clinically apparent reinfection is often called "second attack."Reinfection is more common than might be expected. For instance, the presence of circulating antibody to most respiratory viruses does not seem to protect patients completely from second or third attacks. Half the children with low antibody . . .