👉 Infection occurs when a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, enters and takes control of a host's body, disrupting normal cellular functions and causing disease. This process begins when the pathogen breaches the body's defenses, often through breaks in the skin or via the respiratory, digestive, or urinary tracts. Once inside, the pathogen multiplies and interacts with host cells, potentially triggering an immune response. However, if the pathogen is highly virulent or the host's immune system is weakened, the infection can progress, leading to symptoms like inflammation, tissue damage, and systemic illness. Effective treatment typically involves targeting the pathogen directly, either through antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, antifungals for fungal infections, or antiparasitic drugs, while also supporting the body's natural defenses.
