👉 Infection occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, or parasite, enters a host's body and begins to multiply or cause disease. The timing of infection is critical and can vary depending on the specific pathogen and the host's immune response. For example, respiratory viruses like influenza typically infect individuals through inhalation of droplets containing the virus, leading to symptoms within hours to days after exposure. In contrast, bacterial infections may take longer, as the bacteria must first survive and multiply in the body before causing damage. The incubation period—the time between infection and the onset of symptoms—can range from a few hours to several weeks. Understanding this timing is crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies, such as quarantine measures to limit spread during the infectious period.
