Without proper control, diseases can lead to a widespread outbreak. Contraction can occur as a result of transmission from people, animals, or from the environment. While a disease might be contagious, that does not mean it will infect every person who comes into contact with it. Fortunately there are many methods available to help prevent and contain diseases.
Outbreak: Sudden rise in the number of cases of a disease that occur in a community or geographical area, or may affect several countries.
Epidemic: The rapid spread of an infectious disease that affects some or many people in a community or region at the same time.
Pandemic: An outbreak of a disease that affects large numbers of people throughout the world and spreads rapidly. When new a new disease emerges the general population has little to no immunity against the disease. Therefore it infects a greater number of people and often creates social disruption, economic loss, and general hardship.
PREVENTION:
Learn how disease spread to help protect yourself and others.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and sneeze.
Clean high touch surfaces daily.
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol based hand sanitizers are also effective.