Portals of entry

Virus can enter the body at several sites which are known as portals of entry.
There are four majoy portals of entry:

1) Skin
2) Mucuous membrane
3) Placenta
4) Parenteral route


Let's take a look at...

(1)Skin

The skin is a barrier to most pathogens if it is intact.
However, some pathogens can still enter via hair follicles, sweat glands and through cuts and bruises.

(2) Mucous membrane

There are mucous membrane linings in all of our body cavities such as...

1. Respiratory

2. Gastrointestinal
3. Urinary

4. Reproductive

5. Conjuctiva which is also known as our eyes.

Mucuous membrane, unlike our skin, are thin, moist and warm and it is also where all cells

are living.

(3) Placenta

Pathogens can also be passed from mother to fetus through the placenta. This would result in...

1. Spontanous abortion or otherwise better known as miscarriage

2. Birth defects

3. Premature births which may result in other complications

Lastly, we have...

(4) Parenteral route

This is the most common portal of entry route. Pathogens may infect host in this way via punctures, contaminated needles, bites, cuts, stab wounds or surgery.