👉 Infection, particularly in the context of healthcare and biotechnology, refers to the presence of pathogenic microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites—that invade and multiply within a host, causing disease. These infections can be categorized into various types based on the causative agents, such as bacterial infections (e.g., streptococcus pneumoniae), viral infections (e.g., influenza virus), fungal infections (e.g., Candida albicans), and parasitic infections (e.g., Plasmodium falciparum causing malaria). The term "infection" encompasses both acute and chronic conditions, ranging from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening illnesses. Preventing and managing infections involves a combination of hygiene practices, antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and vaccines, which target the specific pathogens responsible for the infection. In healthcare settings, strict infection control measures are crucial to prevent the spread of infectious agents among patients and staff, ensuring patient safety and effective treatment outcomes.
