Which of the following can lay dormant for long periods of time?
A) Bacteria
B) Fungi
C) Parasites
D) Viruses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Viruses can lay dormant for long periods of time, sometimes even years, in a state called latency. During latency, the virus is not actively replicating or causing disease, but can be reactivated at a later time when conditions are favorable. This is seen in viruses such as HIV, herpes simplex virus, and varicella-zoster virus. Bacteria, fungi, and parasites can also form dormant or spore-like structures, but generally do not remain dormant for as long as viruses.

Which of the Following Can Lay Dormant for Long Periods