👉 An infection is an invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, which can cause disease. When these microorganisms enter the body through various routes—like the respiratory tract, skin, or digestive system—they multiply and disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to symptoms and potential health issues. The immune system responds by mounting an attack to eliminate the invaders, but if the infection is severe or the body's defenses are compromised, it can result in illness. Understanding infections involves recognizing how they spread, their impact on the body, and the methods used to prevent and treat them, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections and antiviral medications for viral ones.
