👉 Infections, including infectious diseases, are caused by the introduction of pathogens—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—into a host's body. These pathogens can enter through various routes, like respiratory droplets, contaminated food or water, or direct contact. Once inside, they multiply and can cause illness by invading tissues, disrupting normal bodily functions, or triggering an immune response that may lead to inflammation and tissue damage. Symptoms vary widely depending on the pathogen but often include fever, pain, swelling, and redness at the infection site. Effective management of infections typically involves identifying the causative agent through diagnostic tests, administering appropriate treatments such as antibiotics for bacterial infections or antivirals for viral ones, and implementing measures to prevent further spread, such as isolation and hygiene practices.
