The difference between Pandemic and Epidemic

covid 19

COVID-19 Source: SBS

Many people get confused when talking about coronavirus or COVID-19. sometimes they call it epidemic and others call it Pandemic. What is the difference between those two words? Also we hear the word quarantine. What does it mean and where did it originated from?


COVID-19 now is a Pandemic. It has spread all over the world. When a disease is found in different continents and at the same period of time, it is call a pandemic. The best and the easiest way to remember it is, Pandemic starts with the letter P. you may say P for passport (travelling the world). 

Epidemic is a disease that is contained in a city, country or a region but has not spread around the world.

We have been hearing lately the word QUARANTINE. A quarantine is a restriction on the movement of people and goods which is intended to prevent the spread of disease or pest. It is often used in connection to disease and illness, preventing the movement of those who may have been exposed to a communicable disease.

The word "quarantine" originates from quarantena, the Venetian language form, meaning (forty days). This is due to the 40-day isolation of ships and people practised as a measure of disease prevention related to the plaque. Between 1348 and 1359, the Black Death wiped out an estimated 30% of Europe's population, and a significant percentage of Asia's population. Such a disaster led governments to establish measures of containment to handle recurrent epidemics. 

Sources 

Wikipedia, Intermountain healthcare

 

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.

Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.

The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.

SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus.

 

 


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