Disease Spread and Defense

Epidemic

Outbreak of disease that attacks many people at the same time and may spread to several communities - eg Black Death

Endemic

Disease that permanently exists in a particular region or population - eg Malaria in Africa

Pandemic

An epidemic throughout the world

Phagocytes

Engulf of all substances with non-specific antigens

Phagocytosis

Engulf and destroy pathogens

Lymphocytes

Produce anti-bodies/ antitoxins - neutralises toxins

Antibodies

Takes time on first exposure - attach to pathogen - stored in case of further infection to help fight it off