👉 An infection is an invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, which disrupt normal cellular functions and cause disease. When these invaders breach the body's defenses, they can trigger an immune response, leading to inflammation and other symptoms characteristic of infection. Identifying an infection involves recognizing signs like fever, redness, swelling, pain, and discharge at the site of infection, as well as laboratory tests that detect the presence of pathogens or their byproducts in bodily fluids or tissues. Accurate identification is crucial for selecting appropriate treatment, which may range from antibiotics to antiviral medications, and for preventing complications.
