👉 Continuation of infection refers to the process by which an initial infection that has been cleared or controlled by the immune system persists and re-emerges, often due to factors like incomplete eradication of the pathogen, weakened immune response, or the presence of reservoirs where the pathogen can hide. This can occur in various contexts, such as latent viral infections like herpes simplex virus (HSV) or varicella-zoster virus, which can reactivate after a period of dormancy; bacterial infections that form biofilms or persist in chronic conditions like tuberculosis; or even persistent parasitic infections that evade the immune system. Continuation of infection highlights the ongoing challenge in medical treatment, as it necessitates long-term management strategies to prevent recurrence and minimize further health complications.
