What is an asymptomatic stage?

The asymptomatic stage, also called the latent period or incubation period, is the time period between initial infection with a pathogen and the appearance of clinical signs and symptoms. During the asymptomatic stage, an individual may be infectious and able to transmit the pathogen to others, even though they do not feel or show any symptoms of illness. The length of the asymptomatic stage can vary depending on the pathogen and the individual's immune response. In some cases, the asymptomatic stage can be brief and symptoms may appear within a matter of hours or days. In other cases, it can be prolonged or indeterminate and the individual may never develop any symptoms.