Portal of Entry

A portal of entry is the route through which a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, or other infectious agents, enters a host's body to cause illness. Think of it as the “gateway” the pathogen uses—like the respiratory tract through the nose or mouth, the skin through cuts or wounds, or the digestive system via contaminated food or water. Understanding portals of entry helps in preventing infections by controlling exposure points, practicing good hygiene, and ensuring proper protection during activities that may introduce harmful organisms into the body.