👉 Infection refers to the invasion and multiplication of pathogens—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—within a host organism, disrupting normal cellular functions and potentially causing disease. When a pathogen enters the body, it can exploit various entry points like breaks in the skin, mucous membranes, or through ingestion and establish itself. Once inside, the pathogen begins to multiply, often triggering an immune response from the host's body. This interaction can lead to inflammation, tissue damage, and the symptoms associated with infection. Effective treatment typically involves eliminating the pathogen, either through antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, antifungals for fungal infections, or other targeted therapies, depending on the nature of the pathogen. Understanding the mechanisms of infection is crucial for developing prevention strategies and treatments to combat infectious diseases.
