What is the difference between infective and infectious?

The words "infective" and "infectious" share a common root ("infect") but have distinct meanings:

1. Infective:

- Meaning: Capable of causing infection or disease.

- Usage: Used to describe an agent (such as a microorganism or substance) that has the potential to cause infection.

- Example: "Infective bacteria" refers to bacteria that have the ability to cause disease if they enter a susceptible host.

2. Infectious:

- Meaning: Relating to or caused by infection; capable of being transmitted or spread.

- Usage: Used to describe diseases, illnesses, or conditions that can be transmitted or spread from an infected person or source to others.

- Example: "Infectious diseases" refers to those illnesses that can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with an infected person or by contact with contaminated surfaces or materials.

In summary, "infective" refers to the potential or ability of an agent to cause infection, while "infectious" refers to the characteristic or state of being transmitted or spread as an infection or disease.