👉 Infection refers to the process by which a pathogen, such as a virus, bacteria, or parasite, enters and takes control of a host organism, leading to disease. This complex biological interaction involves the pathogen's ability to invade host cells, evade the immune system, and replicate, often causing damage or disruption to normal cellular functions. The term "infection" encompasses various forms, from mild illnesses like the common cold to severe conditions such as HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis. Understanding infection is crucial in fields like medicine and microbiology, as it informs strategies for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control, aiming to mitigate the impact of diseases on human health and society.