13. Disease and Immunity

A set of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts related to COVID-19, disease, and immunity.

Pathogen

A disease-causing organism.

Transmissible disease

A disease in which the pathogen can be passed from one host to another.

Virus

A type of pathogen consisting of a protein coat and genetic material.

Active immunity

Defence against a pathogen by antibody production in the body.

Direct contact transmission

Transmission of a pathogen through direct contact, including blood and body fluids.

Indirect transmission

Transmission of pathogens from contaminated surfaces, food, animals, and air.

Antibody

A protein produced by the immune system to neutralize pathogens.

Mechanical barriers

Physical defenses against infection such as skin and hairs in the nose.

Chemical barriers

Defenses against infection, such as enzymes in mucus and acid in the stomach.

Memory cells

Cells that remember past infections to provide long-term immunity.

Naturally acquired active immunity

Immunity developed after exposure to a live pathogen.

Artificially acquired active immunity

Immunity gained through vaccination.