Derek, a lab technician, is looking at a blood specimen under a microscope. While completing a CBC (complete blood count), he notices that the red blood cell count is normal but that the white blood cell count is high. According to this specimen, what is most likely occurring in the patient?

White blood cells help the body respond to infections, so a high white blood cell count commonly points to an infection. Of these choices, a viral infection is the best match; a normal red blood cell count does not rule it out. Kidney disease, heart failure, and liver problems are not the most likely explanation for this finding.

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