👉 Infection is the process by which a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, or parasite, enters and begins to multiply within a host organism. This occurs when the pathogen breaches the body's defenses, often through openings like the skin or mucous membranes, and establishes itself in the host's tissues or fluids. Once inside, the pathogen can replicate, causing damage or triggering an immune response. The inc (invasion) stage specifically refers to the initial steps of this process, where the pathogen actively seeks out and penetrates host cells or tissues to gain a foothold, setting the stage for further infection and potential disease.
