👉 Infection is a biological process where a pathogen, such as a bacterium, virus, fungus, or parasite, invades and takes control of a host's cells or tissues, leading to disease. This invasion can occur through various routes, including inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or vector-borne transmission. Once inside the host, the pathogen replicates, often evading or suppressing the host's immune system, which can result in symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe illness. The body's response to the infection, involving inflammation and immune cell activation, can sometimes cause additional damage to healthy tissues, exacerbating the condition. Effective treatment typically involves targeting the pathogen directly, either through antibiotics for bacterial infections, antivirals for viral infections, antifungals for fungal infections, or antiparasitic drugs, while also supporting the host's immune system to clear the infection. Understanding the specific mechanisms of infection is crucial for developing targeted therapies and preventive measures.
