Which of the following statements about acute viral infections is false?

• A. Acute viral infections cause the host organism to acquire long term immunity to the virus.
• B. Acute viral infections are entirely eliminated by the host over a short period of time.
• C. Acute viral infections can remain dormant in the body for years.
• D. Acute viral infections result in cell apoptosis and the release of newly created viruses.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of acute viral infections: These infections are characterized by rapid onset and typically short duration, where the virus is quickly cleared by the host's immune system.
2. Evaluate the statement about long-term immunity: Acute viral infections often lead to the development of immunity, but this immunity may not always be long-term or complete, depending on the virus.
3. Consider the statement about elimination: Acute viral infections are usually eliminated by the host's immune system over a short period, which is a defining characteristic of 'acute' infections.
4. Analyze the statement about dormancy: Acute viral infections do not typically remain dormant for years; this is more characteristic of chronic or latent infections.
5. Examine the statement about apoptosis: Acute viral infections can cause cell apoptosis, leading to the release of newly created viruses, which is a common mechanism of viral spread.