👉 Infection is a biological process where pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, invade and multiply within a host organism, leading to disease. The conclusion of infection hinges on the body's immune response, which aims to recognize, neutralize, and eliminate these invaders. When pathogens breach the body's defenses—whether through breached skin, mucous membranes, or other entry points—the immune system mounts an attack involving both innate and adaptive responses. Innate immunity provides immediate, non-specific defense mechanisms like inflammation and phagocytosis, while adaptive immunity develops over time, producing antibodies and memory cells to target specific pathogens more effectively. If the pathogen overwhelms these defenses or if the host's immune system is compromised, infection can persist, leading to symptoms and disease. The resolution of infection depends on the success of the immune response; if it effectively clears the pathogen, the infection resolves. However, if the pathogen persists or the immune response fails, the infection can cause lasting damage or chronic conditions. Understanding this process is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures against infectious diseases.
