What is meant by 'infection'?

The term 'infection' refers specifically to the contamination or invasion of body tissues by pathogenic organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. When these organisms enter the body, they can multiply and cause disease by damaging the tissues and triggering an immune response. The pathogenic organisms can lead to various symptoms and health issues, depending on the type of organism and the area of the body affected.

This definition highlights the active role of these microorganisms in causing harm to the host, distinguishing infection from other processes that may occur in the body, such as allergies, inflammation, or immune responses related to healing, which do not specifically involve pathogenic invasions. By understanding infection in this context, it emphasizes the importance of recognizing and treating infections to prevent further complications.