👉 Infection is a biological process where pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, invade and multiply within a host organism, disrupting normal cellular functions and potentially causing disease. The best explanation of infection involves understanding its stages: entry, colonization, proliferation, and dissemination. Pathogens enter the body through various routes—such as inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact—and then adhere to or invade host tissues. Once inside, they multiply, often evading or suppressing the host's immune defenses. This leads to tissue damage and inflammation, which can manifest as symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe illness. Effective infection control measures, including hygiene, vaccination, and antimicrobial therapies, are crucial to prevent and manage infections, highlighting the importance of understanding this complex biological interaction.