👉 Infection refers to the process by which a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, or parasite, enters and establishes itself within a host organism, leading to disease. Conventions in medical and scientific contexts emphasize that infections are typically characterized by an invasion of the body's tissues or fluids, often triggered by an external agent that the host's immune system fails to recognize or combat effectively. This can result in inflammation, tissue damage, and various symptoms depending on the pathogen and the site of infection. Key conventions include understanding the modes of transmission (e.g., airborne, contact, vector-borne), the body's immune response to the invader, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications or severe outcomes. Additionally, infections can be classified based on their etiology, such as bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic, each requiring specific management strategies.
