👉 Infection is a biological process where a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus, or parasite, enters and takes control of a host organism, leading to disease. This occurs when the pathogen breaches the body's natural barriers, like the skin or mucous membranes, and begins to multiply or cause damage. The immune system then responds, but if the infection is severe or the pathogen is particularly virulent, it can overwhelm the defenses, resulting in symptoms of illness. Infections can be acute, lasting a short time, or chronic, persisting for longer periods, and they can affect various parts of the body, from the skin to internal organs. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures to protect health.
