Epidemic

Definition

An epidemic is a sudden increase in the number of cases of a disease above what is normally expected in a specific population or area. It often involves infectious diseases and can spread rapidly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Epidemics can be caused by bacteria, such as Vibrio cholerae, which causes cholera.
2. Antibiotic resistance in bacteria can contribute to the severity and spread of bacterial epidemics.
3. The human immune response plays a crucial role in controlling bacterial epidemics.
4. Hygiene and sanitation are critical in preventing bacterial epidemics, especially in densely populated areas.
5. Historical examples of bacterial epidemics include the bubonic plague, caused by Yersinia pestis.

Review Questions

• What factors can contribute to the emergence of a bacterial epidemic?
• How does antibiotic resistance affect the control of bacterial epidemics?
• Why are hygiene and sanitation important in preventing bacterial epidemics?

Related terms

Pandemic: A pandemic is an outbreak of a disease that occurs on a global scale, affecting large populations across multiple countries or continents.

Endemic: An endemic disease is one that is consistently present within a specific geographic area or population.

Outbreak: An outbreak is an occurrence of disease cases greater than what is typically expected within a particular area or among a specific group over a short period.