A change in body function that is felt by a patient as a result of disease

Able to be passed easily from one person to another

is a rise in the number of cases of a disease beyond what is normally expected in a geographical area

substance prepared from killed or weakened pathogens and introduced into a body to produce immunity

relating to the human respiratory system. A series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The primary organs of the respiratory system are the lungs, which carry out this exchange of gases as we breathe.

a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Commonly called the flu

a restriction on the movement of people and goods which is intended to prevent the spread of disease or pests. It is often used in connection to disease and illness, preventing the movement of those who may have been exposed to a communicable disease

the period between exposure to an infection and the appearance of the first symptoms

a highly infectious respiratory disease caused by a new coronavirus. The disease was discovered in China in December 2019 and has since spread around the world.

showing no symptoms of disease

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a federal agency that conducts and supports health promotion, prevention and preparedness activities in the United States with the goal of improving overall public health.

means slowing the spread of an epidemic disease so that the healthcare system doesn't become overwhelmed. The curve represents the # of cases over time, and flattening that curve means preventing a huge surge of new cases in a very short period of time.

orders for people to stay at home and not leave unless absolutely necessary. They are put into place to prevent the further spread of the disease and allow health professionals to more effectively treat patients.

Measures that reduce contact between large groups of people. Often requires canceling big gatherings (such as conferences, classes, church services, concerts, and sporting events), restricting mass transit and travel, and working from home. The CDC suggests keeping a 6 foot distance between people.