👉 Infection is a biological process where pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, invade and multiply within a host organism, leading to disease. This occurs when these microorganisms breach the body's natural barriers, like the skin or mucous membranes, and establish themselves in tissues or organs. The host's immune system responds by initiating an inflammatory reaction to combat the invaders, but if the infection is severe or the pathogen is particularly virulent, it can overwhelm the immune defenses, causing tissue damage and systemic illness. Understanding the mechanisms of infection is crucial for developing effective treatments and preventive measures, such as antibiotics, antivirals, and vaccines, to mitigate the impact of infectious diseases.