What defines a general infection?

A general infection is defined as an infection that affects the whole body through the bloodstream. This type of infection is systemic, meaning that the pathogens or harmful substances circulate throughout the body rather than being localized to a particular area. The bloodstream serves as a pathway for the pathogens to reach various tissues and organs, leading to widespread effects on the body's systems and potentially causing symptoms that reflect the involvement of multiple systems.

Understanding this concept is crucial, especially in the context of nail care and salon practices, as professionals need to recognize signs of systemic infections. For example, an individual who has a general infection might exhibit symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and generalized body aches, which differ significantly from localized infections that might only present with symptoms (like swelling or redness) at a single site. This distinction emphasizes the broader impact of general infections compared to other types of infections, which are confined to specific locations or affected organ systems.