👉 Infection occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite, enters and takes control of a host's body, disrupting normal cellular functions and causing disease. This process begins when the pathogen breaches the body's barriers, such as the skin or mucous membranes, and then multiplies or interacts with host cells. The immune system responds by attempting to eliminate the invader, but if the pathogen is too virulent or the host's defenses are weakened, infection can lead to symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe illness. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures, such as antibiotics, vaccines, and hygiene practices, to protect against disease.
