autoinfection
/ˌɔtoʊɪnˈfɛkʃən/
noun
- An infection caused by a germ or parasite that is already present in the body, often spread from one part of the body to another.
- Pinworm infections often involve autoinfection when a person scratches and then touches their mouth.
- Good hygiene helps prevent autoinfection from intestinal parasites.
- Scratching a rash can lead to autoinfection by spreading bacteria to other areas of the skin.