Which of the following is NOT a sign of infection?

Dry skin is considered NOT a sign of infection because it does not typically indicate the presence of pathogens or the body’s immune response to an invading organism. Common signs of infection involve changes that reflect inflammation or the immune system's activity, such as pain, swelling, and fever.

Pain often results from the body’s inflammatory response to infection, signaling that something is wrong in a particular area. Swelling occurs as a result of increased blood flow and immune cell accumulation at the site of infection, leading to localized edema. Fever is a systemic response that indicates the body is fighting off an infection, as it is an attempt to create an unfavorable environment for bacteria and viruses.

In contrast, dry skin does not imply any such infections or inflammatory processes and can stem from various other factors, including dehydration, environmental conditions, or skin conditions. Hence, it stands out as not fitting within the common signs of infection.