infectious disease

[ in-fek-shuhs di-zeez ]

noun

1. a disease caused by a bacterium, virus, or other microorganism, and often spreading by contact between individuals or by a vector such as an insect: : ID

   Chicken pox and cholera are infectious diseases.

infectious disease

1. A disease caused by a microorganism or other agent, such as a bacterium, fungus, or virus, that enters the body of an organism.

Word History and Origins

Origin of infectious disease¹

First recorded in 1570–80

Example Sentences

But he is rapidly inching closer toward influencing the federal response to infectious disease, vaccines and public health — which many scientists say would be detrimental to the nation.

From Salon

Scientists say climate change has led to more severe weather, including devastating floods and droughts; the spread of infectious diseases such as West Nile virus; and earlier deaths from respiratory illnesses.

From Salon

H5N1 bird flu has been discovered in a pig in Oregon, a development that has sparked new concerns among infectious disease experts.

From Los Angeles Times

Already, threats of infectious diseases like bird flu are demonstrating what happens when public health falls to the wayside, Rasmussen said.

From Salon

The patient is being treated at the Royal Free Hospital's specialist high consequence infectious diseases unit in London.

From BBC