👉 Settle-in infection refers to the initial phase of infection where pathogens, typically bacteria or fungi, begin to establish themselves within a host after exposure but before they reach peak numbers. During this period, the immune system is still adapting to the presence of these invaders, gradually mounting a response to control and eliminate them. The host's immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, start to recognize and engulf the pathogens, while antibodies and other immune mediators are produced to target and neutralize them. However, the infection is not yet cleared, and the pathogen population remains low, often in a state of equilibrium with the host's defenses. This phase is crucial for understanding the dynamics of infection and the effectiveness of treatments, as interventions during settle-in can significantly impact the progression to more severe stages of infection.
