Health Chapter 5 "Infectious Disease"
Disease
any condition that negatively affects the normal functioning of the body or mind
Sterility
being incapable of producing offspring (can occur in a male or female)
Immune system
the group of organs and cells that works with the lymphatic system to fight germs (also known as the body's natural resistance)
Incubation period
the period of time from which a person becomes infected with a microorganism to the time when they actually have symptoms allowing them to recognize the disease
Homeostasis
the process by which the body maintains a constant internal environment despite the external changes
Acute disease
those diseases that develop suddenly with symptoms that are often severe
Opportunistic infections
those diseases that do not normally affect a person with a with a healthy immune system, but does take advantage of people with AIDS
Lymphatic network
vessels that circulate a special body fluid called lymph
STD
sexually transmitted disease
Virus
smaller in size that bacteria and responsible for more infections than any other pathogen
Antibodies
special proteins produced by the lymphocytes in response to a foreign substance in the body
Resistance
the ability to fight the invading germ
Symptoms
the changes in the body that signal that a particular disease is present
Infectious disease
(communicable disease) all diseases that are caused by the spread of germs
Pathogens
(germs) microorganisms that cause diseases
Vaccine
a mixture of weakened or killed germ cells given orally or through an injection
Carrier
a person who is carrying the germ but doesn't seem to be suffering from the illness
Gamma globulin
a shot of protein that gives protection against the hepatitis disease
Allergen
a substance to which a person's body is particularly sensitive
Fungi
an organism that usually causes diseases of the skin
Chronic disease
diseases that develop gradually and may persist for years
T-cells
lymphocytes that fight germs by several, that are different than the way B-cells fight germs
B-cells
lymphocytes that make antibodies that attack germ cells
Bacteria
one-celled tiny organisms that come in many shapes and grow everywhere
Lymphocytes
white blood cells manufactured by the lymph nodes to travel through the lymphatic system to fight off germs