As of 1/6/2023. All information contained is provided with input from physicians on the NGF Medical Advisory Board.
Glossary
There is a large amount of information in the news about COVID-19. It even seems to change daily. Trying to follow and understand it all can be overwhelming. Add unfamiliar vocabulary, and it is easy for anyone to feel confused. Below are some common Coronavirus terms and definitions to help you easily access the information.
Aerosols
Tiny particles that can linger in the air for hours
Airborne transmission
When an infection spreads through the air, by people inhaling infectious aerosols or respiratory droplets
Anosmia
New loss of taste and/or smell
Asymptomatic
Not feeling sick; not having symptoms
Bivalent vaccine
A vaccine that targets two different strains of a virus or pathogen
Booster
Additional vaccine shot given after the primary series
Breakthrough infection
An infection that occurs in someone who is fully vaccinated
Community spread
Getting the virus while going about regular activities in the community
Comorbidity
Health condition not caused by the virus
COVID-19
The disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus
Epidemic
Widespread illness in one area
Incubation period
The time between being infected and feeling sick
Monovalent vaccine
A vaccine that targets one strain of a virus or pathogen
Novel strain
A new type of virus
Outbreak
Many people sick with one illness in one area
Pandemic
Many people sick with one illness around the world
Pathogen
Germ
Primary series
The initial number of doses of a particular vaccine
Respiratory droplets
Tiny drops of saliva and mucous from your nose, mouth and lungs that spread when you cough, sneeze or speak
SARS-CoV-2
The virus that causes COVID-19 illness
Transmission
Virus passing from one person to another
What’s the Difference?
These often-used terms have different meanings and are not interchangeable. Knowing the difference helps understand the information you read and hear…and helps to keep you safe.
Social Distancing
Self-isolation: Separating yourself from others because you are sick
Self-quarantine: Separating yourself from others because you may have been exposed to a sick person
Shelter in place: Staying home, regardless of whether you are sick or have been exposed, and only leaving for essential needs like medicine or food. This reduces your exposure to others and to the possibility of becoming infected.
Masking
Face shield: A clear device that protects the entire face from splashes and sprays
Respirator (N95 or higher): A special, disposable protective face mask designed to cover the nose and mouth that filters tiny particles including bacteria or viruses.
Surgical mask: A disposable face mask that prevents saliva or mucous from leaving or entering the nose and mouth.
DIY face mask: A homemade reusable face mask covering the nose and mouth used to contain respiratory droplets.
Additional Coronavirus Resources for Gaucher Patients
- COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Gaucher Patients
- Coronavirus Tips for Gaucher Patients
- What Precautions Should People with Gaucher Disease Take
SOURCES
- CDC – Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Approved or Authorized in the United States – https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/interim-considerations-us.html
- EPA – Indoor Air and Coronavirus (COVID-19) – https://www.epa.gov/coronavirus/indoor-air-and-coronavirus-covid-19
- Wisconsin Department of Health Services – COVID-19: Staying Up to Date with Your Vaccines – https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/vaccine-booster.htm
