Secondary Infection

 Begin Learning with Healthy Advice:
Infection (Virus, Bacteria & Other Causes)


Secondary Infection Definition by Healthwise:

Secondary infection

A secondary infection is a bacterial or viral illness that develops following a first illness. The second infection may develop because a person's immune system is stressed or weakened.

The secondary infection may prolong the first infection or make it more severe.

Author: Jeannette Curtis
Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: May 25, 2007

healthwise logo © 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise discalims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.