Definition

A second occurrence of an infection after someone has recovered from the first one caused by the same germ or virus.

Example

After recovering from the flu, she was worried about the possibility of reinfection.

Conversation

Did you hear about the latest news on reinfection rates?

Yeah, I read that it's becoming more common these days.

It's concerning, especially for those who just recovered.

Absolutely, we really need to stay vigilant about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Reinfection is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "infectio" (from Latin, meaning to infect). The word describes the act of being infected again after a previous infection.

Memory Tip

Think of 'again' ('re-') and 'to infect' ('infectio') — this helps you remember that reinfection means being infected again.

Visually Confused Words