👉 Infection is the process by which a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, or parasite, enters and establishes itself 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 begins to multiply or cause damage. Infection involves several stages: adherence to host cells, invasion, replication, and dissemination. The immune system then responds, attempting to eliminate the pathogen through innate and adaptive mechanisms. However, if the infection is successful, it can result in symptoms and potential complications, depending on the pathogen and the host's immune response. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures.
