preinfect
/priːɪnˈfɛkt/Definitions
1. verb
to infect before an infection has developed
“The virus was able to preinfect the cells, causing widespread damage.”
2. noun
the act of infecting before an infection has developed
“The study focused on the mechanisms of preinfection in the patient’s body.”
3. adjective
relating to the act of infecting before an infection has developed
“The preinfectious stage of the disease was critical in determining the outcome.”