COVID-19: A Glossary Of Most Frequently Used Terms

Ever since the novel coronavirus broke out in Wuhan province of China and rapidly swept through large regions of the world, we have come across a range of new expressions which are frequently used. Here's a look at many of them:

Coronavirus: A cluster of viruses which includes several strands some of which could cause infections in humans.

COVID-19: The specific name given to the disease which originated in Wuhan province of China in December 2019.

Epidemic: The incidence in a region, country or community of multiple cases of an illness beyond normal levels. In the case of an epidemic, the period and religion, as also the population where the illness or specific health-related disorder manifests itself is indicated accurately.

Pandemic: An epidemic cutting across countries and continents affecting large segments of the population all over.

Quarantine: The process of isolating an individual or group suspected to have been exposed to a disease which could be spread through transmission, to prevent the likely spread of the infection.

Isolation: The process of separating and individuals or group suspected to be carrying an infection of a communicable disease. The intention behind separating such individuals is to prevent the spread of the disease and to protect those who are not infected.

Social distancing: A simple measure necessary to avoid the transmission of the disease by maintaining a distance of at least 2 m or 6 feet from others and avoiding congested public places, as also large gatherings.

Home isolation: Staying at home as required, when one has symptoms or Laboratory confirmed COVID-19.

Self-quarantine: Following the advice to stay at home and maintaining social distance as required after exposure to COVID-19.

Community Transmission: Random cases of infection in a region of people without a history of travel or connection to an infected person.