Chronic infection

A chronic infection is a long-term health condition in which pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, remain in the body for an extended period. This can happen when the immune system is not able to completely eliminate the infection. Chronic infections can occur anywhere in the body, including the lungs, ears, skin, or urinary tract. Symptoms depend on the location and type of infection. Treatment typically consists of long-term use of antibiotics or other drugs aimed at destroying pathogenic microorganisms. A typical example of a chronic infection is chronic hepatitis B.