👉 An infection is an invasion of the body by harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, which disrupt normal cellular functions and can lead to disease. When these pathogens enter the body through various routes—like the respiratory tract, digestive system, or skin—they multiply and cause damage to tissues and organs. The immune system responds by mounting an attack to eliminate the invaders, but if the infection persists or the immune response is insufficient, it can result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe illness or even death. Understanding infections is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections and vaccines for viral ones.
