👉 Infection is a biological process where pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, invade and multiply within a host organism, causing disease. This occurs when these microorganisms breach the body's natural barriers—like the skin or mucous membranes—and establish themselves in tissues or organs. The immune system initially responds by attempting to eliminate the invaders through inflammation and other defense mechanisms. However, if the pathogen is resilient or the infection is severe, it can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. Effective treatment often involves antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, antifungals for fungal infections, or antiparasitic drugs, depending on the causative agent. Understanding the mechanisms of infection is crucial for developing preventive measures and treatments to combat these diseases.