incubation A method of keeping microorganisms, such as bacteria or viruses, warm and in an appropriate medium to promote their growth (e.g., in identification of the organisms causing disease); also the period during which the organism is present in the body before causing disease (see incubation period). Infectious disease is contracted from a source of infective microorganisms. Once these have entered the body they divide and spread to different parts and it is some time before they cause symptoms due to local or systemic effects. Related categories • HEALTH AND DISEASE • MICROBIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |