Which of the following is a characteristic of viral infections?

Viral infections can indeed remain dormant in the body, which is a characteristic feature distinguishing them from some other types of infections. This dormancy allows viruses to persist within host cells for extended periods without causing immediate symptoms. Classic examples include herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which can enter a latent phase after the initial infection and reactivate later, leading to recurrent episodes.

The ability of viruses to lie dormant is crucial for their survival and spread; it can also contribute to chronic conditions. This characteristic helps in understanding how certain viral diseases can re-emerge later in life, often triggered by stress or immunosuppression, showcasing the complexity of viral pathogenesis and host-virus interactions.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe a universal characteristic of viral infections. While some viral infections may cause immediate cell death or respond specifically to antiviral medications, this is not universally applicable to all viruses. Additionally, high fever is not a guaranteed outcome of every viral infection, as the body's response to pathogens can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of virus and the individual's immune response.