The pathogen's life cycle includes all stages from its origin to its transmission and eventual cessation. This typically includes:
1. Reservoir: Where the pathogen lives, grows, and multiplies. This can be in humans, animals, or the environment. 2. Transmission: How the pathogen spreads from the reservoir to a new host. Methods include direct contact, vectors, and airborne transmission. 3. Incubation Period: The time between exposure to the pathogen and the onset of symptoms. 4. Period of Communicability: The time during which an infected host can transmit the pathogen to others. 5. Resolution or Chronicity: The final stage where the disease either resolves, leads to chronic conditions, or results in death.
