Infections in horror films are not just about the physical ailment; they often symbolize societal fears, the unknown, and the fragility of human life. This curated list of 10 horror films about infections explores various themes from zombie outbreaks to mysterious viruses, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. Whether you're a fan of gore, psychological horror, or social commentary, these films will provide a unique blend of terror and fascination.

The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: While not strictly about an infection, this Stephen King adaptation features a teacher who wakes from a coma with psychic abilities, foreseeing a politician causing a nuclear apocalypse. It's included for its thematic resonance with infection narratives.
Fact: The film was directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror films, which adds a layer of eerie realism to the story.


28 Days Later (2002)
Description: This film redefined the zombie genre with its fast-moving infected, offering a fresh take on the classic zombie apocalypse. It's included for its intense atmosphere and the portrayal of a world in chaos due to a viral outbreak.
Fact: The film was shot on digital video, giving it a raw, documentary-like feel. It also inspired a sequel, "28 Weeks Later."


Cabin Fever (2002)
Description: This film follows a group of friends whose vacation turns deadly when they contract a flesh-eating virus. It's included for its unique blend of horror and dark comedy, showcasing the horror of infection in a confined setting.
Fact: The film was Eli Roth's directorial debut and features a cameo by his friend, Quentin Tarantino.


The Crazies (2010)
Description: A remake of George A. Romero's 1973 film, this version explores a small town's descent into madness after a biological weapon contaminates the water supply. It's included for its intense portrayal of a community's collapse.
Fact: The film was shot in Iowa, which adds to the authenticity of the rural setting. It also features a cameo by Lynn Lowry, who starred in the original film.


Carriers (2009)
Description: This film follows four friends trying to survive in a world ravaged by a deadly virus, focusing on the moral dilemmas they face. It's included for its character-driven narrative and the exploration of human nature in crisis.
Fact: The film was shot in New Mexico, which provided a stark, desolate backdrop for the story.


Contagion (2011)
Description: This film is a realistic portrayal of a global viral outbreak, showing the rapid spread of a deadly virus and the societal breakdown that follows. It's included for its chilling accuracy and the way it mirrors real-world pandemics.
Fact: The film was used by the CDC as an educational tool for public health officials. It also features a cast of A-list actors including Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kate Winslet.


The Bay (2012)
Description: Barry Levinson's found footage horror film about a parasitic infection in a small town's water supply. It's included for its ecological horror angle and the realistic portrayal of a local disaster.
Fact: The film uses a mix of real news footage and scripted scenes to create a documentary-like feel.


The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
Description: This film presents a unique take on the zombie genre with children born with a fungal infection that turns them into "hungries." It's included for its fresh perspective on infection and the moral questions it raises.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by M.R. Carey, who also wrote the screenplay.


It Comes at Night (2017)
Description: This psychological horror film deals with a family's struggle to survive in a post-apocalyptic world where an unknown contagion has wiped out most of humanity. It's included for its intense atmosphere and the exploration of trust and paranoia.
Fact: The film's ending is intentionally ambiguous, leaving viewers to interpret the nature of the threat.


Pontypool (2008)
Description: Set in a small Canadian town, this film explores a unique infection where the English language itself becomes the vector for a zombie-like condition. It's included for its innovative approach to the infection theme.
Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days, and the entire story unfolds in a single location, a radio station.
