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Plural
epidemics
1
the rapid spread of an infectious disease within a specific population, community, or region, affecting a significant number of individuals at the same time
An epidemic is an outbreak of a disease that spreads quickly and affects a large number of people within a community, region, or population at the same time, in contrast to a pandemic, which is a global outbreak of a disease. An epidemic often involves illnesses that were previously controlled or uncommon in the area. The spread can happen through person-to-person contact, contaminated food or water, or other methods. Public health measures, such as vaccination, quarantine, and hygiene practices, are typically used to control and prevent further spread of the disease.
- The epidemic caused a surge in hospital admissions.
- Health officials worked to contain the epidemic.
- The flu epidemic affected thousands of people last winter.
- The government launched a vaccination campaign during the epidemic.
- The epidemic put a strain on the healthcare system.
2
a sudden and widespread occurrence of a particular negative event or phenomenon, especially affecting a large number of people or things within a specific area or group
- The region faced an epidemic of wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes.
- The country struggled with an epidemic of unemployment during the economic recession.
- There was an epidemic of homelessness in the region due to the economic downturn.
- There was a nationwide epidemic of cybercrime that prompted new security measures.
- The town experienced an epidemic of thefts after several stores were broken into.