An example of a latent viral infection is Select one: a. Cold sores. b. Influenza. c. Mumps. d. Smallpox.

Cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), are a classic example of a latent viral infection. After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate due to stress, illness, or other triggers, leading to those pesky, painful blisters cropping up again. Interestingly, the ability of some viruses to remain in a latent state reflects an ingenious survival strategy. By hiding out in the host's cells, they evade the immune system's detection, allowing them to re-emerge later. This is why cold sores can pop up seemingly out of nowhere—they're simply waiting for the perfect moment to say "surprise!"