Acute disease

Definition

An acute disease is a condition that comes on rapidly and has severe symptoms but tends to be of short duration. It often requires urgent or short-term care and can range from mild to life-threatening.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acute diseases caused by viruses typically have a rapid onset and can include illnesses such as influenza, the common cold, and viral gastroenteritis.
2. Unlike chronic diseases, acute diseases usually resolve relatively quickly with appropriate treatment or on their own.
3. Many acute viral infections are highly contagious and can spread rapidly through populations.
4. Vaccinations are a key method of preventing certain acute viral diseases such as measles and chickenpox.
5. Antiviral medications can sometimes be used to reduce the severity and duration of certain acute viral infections.

Review Questions

Related terms

chronic_disease: A long-lasting condition that can be controlled but not cured.

antiviral_medication: Drugs used to treat viral infections by inhibiting the development of the pathogen.

vaccination:

The administration of a vaccine to stimulate an individual's immune system to develop adaptive immunity to a pathogen.