👉 Infection refers to the process by which a pathogen, such as a virus, bacteria, fungus, or parasite, enters and begins to multiply within a host organism, leading to disease. This occurs when the pathogen breaches the body's natural barriers, like the skin or mucous membranes, and establishes itself in tissues or organs. The immune system initially tries to combat the invader, but if the pathogen is too virulent or numerous, it can overwhelm these defenses, resulting in inflammation, tissue damage, and the manifestation of symptoms. Infection can be acute, lasting for a short period, or chronic, persisting over months or years, depending on the pathogen and the host's immune response. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures to protect health.
