Infectious Diseases

Infection

An infection occurs when a foreign species colonizes itself in a host organism. The invader (or pathogen) uses the host’s body to multiply, which may interfere with the normal body function of the host. These pathogens can be bacteria, parasites, fungi, viruses, prions, or viroids. An infection can lead to chronic wounds, gangrene and even death. After the host body’s immune system determines that there has been an infection, an immune response kicks in and inflammation and superficial redness generally ensue. In some cases a parasitic relationship develops between the host and the parasite where the parasite benefits to the detriment of the host. There are cures for many infectious diseases; however many preventable infections cause death in developed and developing countries alike.