superinfection

noun

su·​per·​in·​fec·​tion ˌsü-pər-in-ˈfek-shən 

: reinfection or a second infection with a microbial agent (such as a bacterium, fungus, or virus)

superinfect

ˌsü-pər-in-ˈfekt 

transitive verb

Examples of superinfection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Over time, these pathologies can lead to obstruction of the biliary duct with adult worms or calcium bilirubinate stones, and predispose the host to bacterial superinfection, liver abscesses and hepatitis (d). —Rebecca Kreston, Discover Magazine, 10 Apr. 2011

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

superinfection

noun

su·​per·​in·​fec·​tion -in-ˈfek-shən 

: a second infection superimposed on an earlier one especially by a different microbial agent of exogenous or endogenous origin that is resistant to the treatment used against the first infection