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The human body is constantly being exposed
to bacteria and viruses with the potential to cause disease. To stay
healthy, the body has developed a complex protective network, the
immune system, which fights
these infections. Our body is endowed with usually harmless bacteria
— the so-called natural microbial
flora. An intact immune system establishes a delicate balance
between the body and the army of bacteria. Malnutrition, wounds, and
an impaired immune system can upset this balance. Thus, harmless bacteria
may become harmful. Other pathogens may then enter the body more easily,
multiply, and cause infectious diseases.
Therefore, a person’s intact immune
response and physical condition are important to withstanding
an upcoming infection or to effectively combat disease-causing pathogens. |
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