👉 Infection is a biological process where a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, or parasite, invades and takes control of a host organism, leading to disease. This occurs when the pathogen breaches the body's natural barriers—like the skin or mucous membranes—and enters the bloodstream or tissues. Once inside, the pathogen can replicate, often causing damage to host cells and tissues, triggering an immune response. However, in some cases, the infection can become chronic or persistent, where the pathogen evades the immune system, leading to long-term health issues. Understanding infection is crucial for developing treatments and preventive measures, such as vaccines and antibiotics, to protect against and manage infectious diseases globally.