An acute infection is defined by which characteristic?

An acute infection is characterized by a rapid onset of severe, short-lived symptoms, which aligns with the chosen answer. Acute infections typically occur suddenly and can cause intense symptoms that prompt immediate medical attention. They often resolve quickly, either through the body's immune response or with medical intervention. This contrasts with chronic infections, which develop gradually and persist over a longer period, often leading to more mild but enduring symptoms. Similarly, a subclinical infection, while present, does not manifest with noticeable symptoms, which further differentiates it from the definition of acute infections. This understanding of acute infections is fundamental in microbiology, as it helps in identifying the nature of infections and determining appropriate responses for treatment and management.