👉 Chains of infection describe the sequential steps by which a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, or parasite, spreads from one host to another, leading to the establishment and propagation of an infection. This process typically begins when a pathogen enters a new host through various routes like respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, vectors (like mosquitoes), or direct contact. Once inside, the pathogen multiplies and can cause disease. However, the infection doesn't stop there; it often relies on a chain of events to persist and spread further. For instance, pathogens may evade the host's immune system, adhere to host cells, replicate, and then transmit to new hosts through bodily fluids or vectors. Understanding these chains is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies, such as vaccines, antibiotics, and hygiene practices, to break the cycle of infection and control outbreaks.
