👉 Infection is a biological process where a pathogen, such as a virus or bacterium, enters and begins to multiply within a host organism, disrupting normal cellular functions and leading to disease. The initial stage involves the pathogen attaching to specific receptors on host cells, often through surface proteins. Once attached, the pathogen can either enter the cell directly or be engulfed by it, depending on its type. Inside the host, the pathogen replicates, sometimes causing damage to host tissues and triggering an immune response. This response can manifest as inflammation, fever, and other symptoms, aiming to contain and eliminate the invader. However, in some cases, the infection can become chronic or lead to severe complications if the host's immune system fails to effectively combat the pathogen. Understanding the mechanisms of infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures, such as vaccines and antibiotics.
