Stage-1 Infected: CARRIER

Threat Level: 🟡 MODERATE
Infection Stage: Early
First Documented: Sector 4, Day 3
Specimens Recorded: 8,142

Overview

Stage-1 infected, designated as "Carriers," represent the initial mutation phase of the quarantine zone pathogen. While less aggressive than advanced stages, they pose significant contamination risks.

Physical Characteristics

Attribute	Description
Height	1.6-1.9m (baseline human range)
Weight	55-80kg (minimal change from pre-infection)
Skin	Pale, slight discoloration, visible veins on extremities
Eyes	Bloodshot, dilated pupils, light sensitivity
Mobility	Uncoordinated gait, occasional tremors

Infection Biomarkers

Visual Indicators

Dark circles under eyes
Persistent coughing (dry)
Visible skin lesions (hands, neck)
Disoriented behavior

Thermal Signature

Body temperature: 38.5-39.5°C (elevated)
Detectable via BioScan-7 at 30m range

Behavioral Patterns

Cognitive Function

Unlike advanced stages, Carriers retain partial cognitive ability:

Can speak (slurred, confused)
Recognize familiar faces (inconsistent)
Follow simple commands (50% success rate)

Aggression Triggers

⚠️ Carriers become hostile when:

Cornered or restrained
Exposed to loud noises
Approached by groups (3+)
Deprived of food/water for >24 hours

Containment Protocol

Non-Lethal Approach (Preferred)

Maintain distance: Minimum 3 meters
Use calm voice: Avoid sudden movements
Isolate: Separate from uninfected immediately
Medical screening: Test for pathogen markers
Quarantine: 72-hour observation period

Lethal Force Authorization

Only permitted if:

Subject exhibits Stage-2 symptoms
Imminent threat to personnel
Containment breach risk

Progression Timeline

Day 0-3:   Initial infection, flu-like symptoms
Day 4-7:   Stage-1 manifestation (Carrier status)
Day 8-14:  Critical window - 60% progress to Stage-2
Day 15+:   Stage-2 transformation (Shrieker)

Intervention Window

Days 4-7 offer the highest chance of successful treatment with experimental antivirals.

Field Protocol

When encountering suspected Carriers, prioritize non-lethal containment. Many are civilian refugees who can still be saved with proper medical intervention.
— Dr. Sarah Chen, Medical Director

Case Study: Civilian Refugee #4721

Date: 2025-10-15
Location: Checkpoint Alpha
Outcome: Successfully treated

Subject presented with Stage-1 symptoms on Day 5 post-infection. Administered Antiviral Compound-7 and full decontamination. Subject tested negative for pathogen markers after 10 days. Released with exit permit on Day 14.

Lesson: Early detection saves lives.

Stage-1 Infected: Carrier