What is a latent virus?

Latent virus is a virus that, after initial infection, may remain dormant within the body for an extended period of time without causing any symptoms. The virus can then be reactivated at a later point, leading to the onset of symptoms or the development of disease. Latent viruses can persist in the body for years, sometimes even for the life of the individual. Examples of latent viruses include the herpes simplex virus, the Epstein-Barr virus, and the varicella-zoster virus.