Infectiousness: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is used to describe how easily a disease can be spread between individuals, typically through pathogens like bacteria or viruses. It generally focuses on the biological aspect of the disease.

• The infectiousness of the virus increased with each mutation.
• Understanding the infectiousness of the disease helps in planning public health measures.

This word describes how easily a disease can spread from person to person, often through direct contact or close proximity. It is commonly used in discussions about diseases that spread quickly among people.

• The contagiousness of the flu makes annual vaccinations important.
• Doctors were concerned about the contagiousness of the outbreak in the crowded refugee camp.

Refers to the capability of a disease or condition to be passed from one person or organism to another. This term is often used in scientific and medical contexts to discuss the mechanisms and rate at which diseases are transmitted.

• Researchers are studying the transmissibility of the new virus variant.
• High transmissibility of the disease necessitated stricter quarantine measures.

Informal discussions about how easily something can spread from one person to another, typically regarding diseases.

• The infectiousness of the flu means it can affect many people in a short period.
• His speech had an infectiousness that made everyone want to join the cause.

Used to describe how quickly and easily a disease can be passed from person to person, often in a more general context.

• The contagiousness of the common cold requires frequent handwashing.
• Parents are concerned about the contagiousness of lice in schools.

Scientific or medical discussions that focus on the ability of a disease or virus to be passed from one individual to another.

• Researchers are studying the transmissibility of the new virus strain.
• The transmissibility of measles is higher compared to many other infectious diseases.