As of 1/31/24. 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 shot (with the same vaccine formula) given after the primary series to boost existing immunity
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
Reinfection
An infection that occurs in someone who previously had COVID-19 one or more times
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
Serial testing
Taking two or more tests over several days
Transmission
Virus passing from one person to another
Updated shot
A vaccine with a slightly different formula to provide protection against more recent variants
Wastewater testing
Testing for SARS-CoV-2 in sewage to evaluate levels of COVID-19 in the community
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.
Vaccines
Booster: A booster shot has the same formula as the vaccines in the primary series. Immunity from some vaccines, such as the COVID-19 vaccines, wanes over time. The booster is given to increase existing immunity.
Updated shot: These shots have a different formula than the primary series. As viruses evolve over time, the formula is updated to better protect against more recent variants. An updated shot helps the body develop new immunity to the targeted variants.
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
Respirator (N95 or higher): A disposable protective face mask designed to cover the nose and mouth that filters tiny particles, including bacteria or viruses. These masks provide the highest level of protection against aerosols and respiratory droplets.
Surgical mask: A disposable face mask that prevents saliva or mucous from leaving or entering the nose and mouth. These masks protect against respiratory droplets but not aerosol spread.
DIY face mask: A homemade reusable face mask covering the nose and mouth used to contain respiratory droplets. These masks protect against respiratory droplets but not aerosol spread.
Face shield: A clear device that protects the entire face from splashes and sprays. A face shield alone does not protect against COVID-19, but one may be worn in conjunction with a mask.
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
