👉 Infection occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, fungus, or parasite, enters and takes control of a host's cells or tissues. This can happen through various routes, including inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or vector-borne transmission. Once inside the body, the pathogen begins to replicate, often triggering an immune response. However, if the pathogen is highly virulent or the host's defenses are weakened, it can cause disease by damaging tissues and disrupting normal bodily functions. The infection process can vary widely depending on the type of pathogen and the specific host, but it generally involves the pathogen evading or suppressing the immune system, leading to symptoms and potential complications.
