Coronavirus (COVID-19) Glossary

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

 

SOURCES

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