👉 Infection, particularly from pathogens like bacteria or viruses, occurs when these microorganisms breach the body's defenses and establish themselves within host cells or tissues. This process begins with the pathogen entering the body through various routes, such as inhalation, ingestion, or direct contact. Once inside, the pathogen can replicate, often by hijacking the host's cellular machinery. The immune system responds by initiating an inflammatory reaction to contain and eliminate the invader, but in some cases, the infection can persist or become chronic if the pathogen evades immune detection or causes significant damage. This interaction between the invading pathogen and the host's immune system is central to understanding infection and developing strategies for prevention and treatment.
