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