Final answer:
An asymptomatic carrier is an individual who is infected with an infectious agent but does not show any signs of the illness. They can still transmit the pathogen to others.
Step-by-step explanation:
An individual who serves as a host for an infectious agent but does not show any apparent signs of the illness is called an asymptomatic carrier. This means that they are infected with the pathogen and can transmit it to others, even though they do not display any symptoms themselves.
For example, a person infected with the herpes simplex virus may remain asymptomatic and unknowingly spread the virus to others through close contact. Similarly, a person who is a carrier for a recessive genetic disorder may not show symptoms of the disorder but can pass it on to their offspring.
It's important to note that even though an individual may be asymptomatic, they can still transmit the infection to others. Therefore, proper precautions should be taken to prevent the spread of the infectious agent.