👉 The term "postinfective" refers to a period of time when an organism is still infected with a particular pathogen, but is no longer contagious or symptomatic. This phase typically occurs after exposure to a virus or bacteria that has already been introduced into an individual's body through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Postinfective states can vary depending on the species and the specific infection, but they are characterized by symptoms similar to those of the initial infection but without the typical clinical signs