Final answer:
Infection is most accurately described as the colonization of the body by pathogens, leading to diseases. Not all infections cause disease, but when they do, they display signs and symptoms. The correct answer is C, a disease resulting from pathogens in or on the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
An infection most accurately defines the successful colonization of a host by a microorganism, known as pathogens, which can multiply and potentially lead to disease. Diseases caused by infections deviate from the normal structure or functioning of the body and can show both signs that are objectively measured and symptoms that are subjectively reported by the patient. Not all infections result in disease, but those that do can cause noticeable symptoms and may require medical treatment.
Common examples of infections include food poisoning due to a preformed bacterial toxin in food, a skin infection acquired from a dog bite, or an infection from the stick of a contaminated needle. Infections can be spread through various ways, including person to person, by animals, or through contaminated food and water. The correct response to the student question is (C) A disease resulting from pathogens in or on the body.