👉 Infection occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite, enters and takes control of a host's body, disrupting normal cellular functions and causing disease. This process involves the pathogen invading tissues or organs, often evading or suppressing the host's immune response to establish itself. The body's immune system then reacts, initiating inflammation and other defense mechanisms to combat the infection. However, if the pathogen is highly virulent or the host's defenses are weakened, the infection can progress, leading to symptoms and potential complications. Understanding the adjustment in this context refers to the dynamic balance between the pathogen's ability to cause harm and the host's capacity to resist or recover from the infection. Effective treatment often involves adjusting this balance by targeting specific aspects of the pathogen or enhancing the immune response to clear the infection.
