FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $2.99 payment

Study for the FFA Veterinary Science CDE Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Practice this question and more.

Which type of organism is typically responsible for silent infections that do not show immediate symptoms?

Bacteria
Fungi
Viruses
Parasites

The correct answer is: Parasites

Parasites are often responsible for silent infections that may not exhibit immediate symptoms in the host. This characteristic is particularly true for certain types of parasites, such as those that can establish a prolonged presence in the body without immediately triggering a noticeable immune response. For instance, parasitic infections like those from protozoa or helminths can take time to manifest symptoms as they may adapt to the host's environment and develop mechanisms to evade the immune system. This stealthy nature allows them to thrive within their host without causing visible indications of illness at first. Some parasites may remain dormant or cause mild symptoms that can be overlooked, allowing them to multiply and spread before the host becomes aware of their presence. In contrast, while bacteria and viruses can also cause infections, they typically show faster onset of symptoms. Fungi can lead to infections with visible symptoms as well, making parasites distinct in their ability to persist in the host without immediate detection.