| Word |
Text |
| > |
greater than |
| > |
greater than or equal to |
| < |
less than |
| < |
less than or equal to |
| 2-phenoxyethanol |
a chemical used as a preservative in certain vaccines |
| accelerated |
sooner than recommended |
| accelerated schedule |
a schedule that allows vaccines to be given at sooner than routinely recommended intervals |
| acellular |
a vaccine containing partial cellular material as opposed to complete cells |
| acetaminophen |
a medicine used to treat pain and fever; a common brand name is Tylenol® |
| ACIP |
Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices |
| active immunity |
protection against disease through antibodies produced by the body's own immune system |
| acute |
a short-term, intense health effect |
| acyclovir |
antiviral medication used in the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and varicella zoster virus infections |
| additives |
substances that are added to other things to improve, strengthen, or preserve them |
| adefovir |
an antiviral medication |
| adjuvant |
a substance (e.g., aluminum salt) that is added during production of a vaccine to increase the body's immune response to the vaccine |
| adrenal gland |
a gland that produced adrenaline and other hormones |
| adverse event |
refers to any adverse event that occurs following vaccination; could be a true vaccine reaction, or just a coincidental event, with further research needed to distinguish between them |
| adverse reaction |
an untoward (unfavorable) effect caused by a vaccine that is extraneous to (not in keeping with) the vaccine's primary purpose of production of immunity |
| adverse reactions |
untoward (unfavorable) effects caused by a vaccine that are extraneous to (not in keeping with) the vaccine's primary purpose of production of immunity |
| aerosolized |
dispersed as fine droplets in a spray |
| age-dependent |
something that tends to occur as a function of a person's age |
| agammaglobulinemia |
congenital or acquired absence of, or extremely low levels of, gamma globulin in the blood |
| AIDS |
aquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a medical condition in which the immune system cannot function properly and protect the body from disease; as a result, the body cannot defend itself against infections (such as pneumonia); AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) |
| airborne |
carried or transported through the air |
| allergic |
hypersensitivity to a substance that is normally harmless to most persons |
| allergic reaction |
a physical reaction to a substance that is normally harmless to most persons |
| aluminum |
a compound onto the surface of which a vaccine is adsorbed to increase the body's antibody response to the vaccine |
| ampoule |
a small, sterile glass or plastic container; it holds a dose of a drug to be given |
| anaerobic |
able to survive only in an environment in which there is no oxygen |
| anaphylaxis |
a severe and sometimes fatal allergic reaction that is characterized by hives, itching, respiratory difficulty, and shock; this condition requires immediate medical attention |
| anorexia |
loss of appetite |
| antecedent |
preceding; occurring before |
| anterolateral |
referring to the front and outer side of an area; the anterolateral thigh is the area on the front and outer aspect of the thigh
 |
| anthrax |
an acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis; anthrax most commonly occurs in hoofed mammals and can also occur in humans |
| antibiotic |
a drug used to fight infections caused by bacteria |
| antibiotics |
drugs used to fight infections caused by bacteria |
| antibodies |
special proteins made by the body in response to antigens (foreign substances, e.g., bacteria or viruses); antibodies bind with antigens on microorganisms to protect the body against infection |
| antibody |
a special protein made by the body in response to antigens (foreign substances, e.g., bacteria or viruses); antibodies bind with antigens on microorganisms to protect the body against infection |
| antigen |
foreign substances (e.g., bacteria or viruses) in the body that are capable of causing disease; the presence of antigens in the body triggers an immune response, usually the production of antibodies |
| antigens |
foreign substances (e.g., bacteria or viruses) in the body that are capable of causing disease; the presence of antigens in the body triggers an immune response, usually the production of antibodies |
| anti-HAV IgM antibody |
a specific protein made by the body in response to hepatitis A antigens that binds to hepatitis A antigens to protect the body against infection |
| anti-HBs |
antibody that develops in response to hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg); it indicates immunity in persons who have been infected with hepatitis B virus in the past and in person who have received hepatitis B vaccine. |
| antitoxin |
a substance that counteracts a toxin or poison; a solution of antibodies prepared from the serum of animals or humans immunized with specific antigens (e.g., diphtheria, tetanus) and used to achieve short-term passive immunity in humans who may lack protective antibodies |
| antiviral |
literally "against-virus"; any medicine capable of destroying or weakening a virus |
| arthralgia |
joint pain |
| arthritis |
inflammation of the joints that causes swelling, stiffness, and pain |
| arthus reaction |
a rare, severe, exaggerated local allergic reaction to injection of a foreign substance |
| aseptic meningitis |
viral infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord |
| aspiration |
sucking of fluid or a foreign body into the airway when drawing breath or swallowing |
| asplenia |
absence of a functioning spleen |
| asthma |
a chronic respiratory disease characterized by constriction of the bronchial tubes to the lungs, which causes sudden and recurring breathing problems, coughing, and chest tightness and wheezing |
| asymmetrical |
not the same on both sides |
| asymptomatic |
the presence of an infection without symptoms; also known as an inapparent or subclinical infection |
| atrophy |
a wasting away of or decrease in size |
| attenuated |
weakened; a type of live vaccine containing viruses or bacteria too weak to cause disease, but strong enough to cause the body to make antibodies |
| attenuates |
to reduce or weaken |
| autism |
chronic developmental disorder usually diagnosed between 18 and 30 months of age; symptoms include problems with social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive interests and activities; at this time, the cause of autism is not known although some experts believe it to be a genetically based disorder |
| Bacillus Calmette-Guérin(BCG) |
also called BCG; an attenuated strain of the tuberculosis bacteria used for tuberculosis immunization; rarely used in the United States |
| bacteria |
single-celled microorganisms, some of which can cause disease |
| bacterial meningitis |
inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord; caused by a bacterial infection |
| bacteremia |
the presence of bacteria in the blood |
| BCG |
also called Bacillus Calmette-Guérin; an attenuated strain of the tuberculosis bacteria used for tuberculosis immunization; rarely used in the United States |
| bilateral |
affecting both sides, as in both the right and left hand side of the body |
| birth defects |
physical or mental abnormalities that are present at birth; can be caused by faulty development, infection, heredity, or injury |
| bloodborne |
found in the blood |
| bloodstream |
the blood that flows through the blood vessels of the circulatory system |
| bone marrow |
soft tissue located within bones that produces all blood cells, including the ones that fight infection |
| booster dose |
an additional vaccine dose needed to "boost" (increase) antibody levels after protection begins to decrease |
| booster doses |
additional doses of vaccine needed to "boost" (increase) antibody levels after protection begins to decrease |
| boosting |
increasing antibody levels after protection against a disease begins to decrease by giving a supplemental dose of vaccine |
| brachial neuritis |
inflammation of nerves in the arm causing muscle weakness and pain |
| breakthrough infection |
development of a disease despite a person's having responded to a vaccine |
| breakthrough varicella infections |
varicella infections that occur even though protective antibodies from varicella immunization are present in the body |
| bronchitis |
inflammation of the bronchial tubes that carry air into the lungs |
| bulbar polio |
a form of paralytic polio that affects the "bulb" or the medulla part of the brain, which contains the cranial nerves that control swallowing, breathing, and speech |
| bulbospinal polio |
a form of paralytic polio that affects the "bulb" or the medulla part of the brain, which contains the cranial nerves that control swallowing, breathing, and speech, and the spinal nerves that lead to the arms and legs |
| cancer |
a disease in which there is abnormal cell growth |
| carcinogens |
substances which can cause cancer |
| cardiac |
related to the heart |
| cardiovascular |
related to the heart and blood vessels |
| carriers |
persons who are infected with a disease-causing microorganism and can spread it to others, but who show no symptoms of the disease |
| cataracts |
clouding of the lens of the eye that reduces the ability to see clearly; can lead to blindness |
| causal association |
the presence or absence of a variable (e.g., smoking) that is responsible for an increase or decrease in another variable (e.g., cancer); a change in exposure leads to a change in the outcome of interest |
| CD4 T-lymphocyte percentage |
the number of a type of white blood cell that is important to the body's immune functioning |
| cellular immunodeficiency |
impaired ability of the body to fight infection caused by a lack of, or impaired functioning of, T cells, which are cells derived from the thymus gland that play a major role in immune reactions |
| cellulitis |
infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that tends to spread; characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness; can be bacterial or viral |
| central nervous system |
the brain and the spinal cord |
| central nervous system (CNS) |
the brain and the spinal cord |
| centripetal |
when referring to a rash, a pattern in which more of the rash is located toward the center of the body, i.e., the trunk |
| cerebral palsy |
a motor nerve disorder caused by a permanent brain defect or injury before birth, at birth, or shortly after birth; symptoms depend on the area of the brain involved, but can include spasms and paralysis of the legs and/or arms, seizures, speech difficulties, vision and hearing problems, and learning difficulties |
| cerebrospinal fluid |
fluid that flows through the brain and spinal cord; acts to cushion the brain and nervous system tissue |
| chemoprophylaxis |
preventing disease using chemical agents (medications) |
| chemotherapy |
anticancer medicines; drug treatment for cancer in which chemicals are administered to destroy cancer cells |
| chickenpox |
an acute, highly contagious viral infection, usually of childhood, that causes fever, skin lesions, and malaise; also called varicella |
| chronic |
lasting for a long time or marked by frequent recurrence |
| chronic health condition |
a health-related state that lasts for a long period of time (e.g., cancer, asthma) |
| chronological age |
the age of a person as measured from his or her birth |
| circulating antibody |
antibody that is circulating around the body in the blood |
| cirrhosis |
a chronic and sometimes fatal liver disease |
| clotting factor disorders |
any of a group of disorders that prevent blood from clotting after injury; often require frequent transfusions of blood components that help with clotting |
| cold-adapted |
altered to grow at a temperature below core body temperature |
| colony |
a mass of microorganisms that may grow in or on a surface |
| coma |
a state of deep unconsciousness |
| combination vaccine |
a vaccine that contains more than one type of vaccine in a single injection |
| combination vaccines |
vaccines that contain more than one type of vaccine in a single injection |
| communicable |
able to spread disease; also known as infectious |
| congenital immunodeficiency |
a rare genetic condition present at birth that results in the immune system's inability to fight infections |
| Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) |
a pattern of birth defects caused by rubella virus exposure during pregnancy |
| cognitive |
refers to the ability to perceive, recognize, judge, reason, and think |
| conjugate |
refers to vaccines in which two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) have been joined together to increase the vaccine's effectiveness |
| conjugate vaccine |
a vaccine in which two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) have been joined together to increase the vaccine's effectiveness |
| conjugate vaccines |
vaccines in which two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) have been joined together to increase the vaccines' effectiveness |
| conjunctiva |
the mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and the exposed surface of the eyeball |
| conjunctivitis |
inflammation of the mucous membranes surrounding the eye that causes the area to become red and irritated; the membranes may be irritated because of exposure to heat, cold, or chemicals; this condition is also caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies |
| constipation |
passage of small amounts of hard, dry bowel movements, usually fewer than three times a week. Persons who are constipated may find it difficult and painful to have a bowel movement. Other symptoms of constipation include feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and sluggish. |
| contagious |
able to be spread by direct or indirect contact |
| contaminated |
dirty or soiled, especially by microorganisms that cause illness |
| contamination |
the act of dirtying or soiling; the state of being dirty or soiled, especially by microorganisms that cause disease |
| contraindication |
a condition in a recipient which is likely to result in a life-threatening problem if a vaccine were given |
| contraindications |
conditions in a recipient which are likely to result in a life-threatening problem if a vaccine were given |
| controlled idiopathic epilepsy |
seizure activity without a known cause that is controlled by medication or other means so that the person does not continue to have seizures |
| convalescence |
recovery period after an illness |
| convalescent |
related to the recovery period after an illness |
| corticosteroids |
a steroid hormone; when given as a medication, it suppresses the body's normal inflammatory reactions to infection. This increases the risk for serious infection. Persons receiving 2 or more mg/kg per day (or 20 mg or more per day) of corticosteroid for 14 days or more should not receive live injected vaccines or intranasal vaccine for a least one month after cessation of drug therapy. Persons receiving a lower dose of corticosteroid, treatment for fewer than 14 days, alternate-day therapy, maintenance physiological doses, or topical, aerosol, intra-articular (into the joint), bursal, or tendon injections of corticosteroid may be vaccinated. |
| coryza |
runny nose; nasal discharge |
| Crohn's disease |
a chronic medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bowel; symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss; the cause of Crohn's disease is not yet known, but genetic, dietary, and infectious factors may play a part |
| cutaneous |
related to the skin |
| deafness |
a hearing loss of more than 90 decibels; a hearing impairment so severe that the person cannot process sounds even with a hearing aid |
| decreased level of consciousness |
a state in which a person becomes unaware of his or her surroundings; is no longer awake or alert; may become unable to respond to questions or to follow directions, such as "squeeze my hand"; may not know where he or she is; may not know who familiar persons are |
| deltoid muscle |
muscle in the outer portion of the upper arm found 2 to 3 fingers down from the acromion process and above the axillary fold
 |
| dehydration |
inadequate amount of water in the body; can occur from illness or from decreased or lack of fluid intake |
| demyelinating disorder |
a medical condition in which the myelin sheath is damaged; the myelin sheath surrounds nerves and is responsible for the transmission of impulses to the brain; damage to the myelin sheath results in muscle weakness, poor coordination, and possible paralysis; examples of demyelinating disorders include multiple sclerosis (MS), optic neuritis, transverse neuritis, and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) |
| developmental delay |
a delay in reaching key developmental milestones, such as talking, crawling, walking, or rolling |
| developmentally disabled |
refers to a person who had a severe, chronic disability caused by a mental or physical impairment or a combination of these impairments, which includes mentally retarded individuals as well as the physically handicapped |
| diabetes |
a chronic health condition in which the body is unable to produce insulin and properly break down sugar (glucose) in the blood; symptoms include hunger, thirst, excessive urination, dehydration, and weight loss; the treatment of diabetes requires daily insulin injections or other diabetes medication, proper nutrition, and regular exercise; complications can include heart disease, stroke, neuropathy, poor circulation leading to loss of limb, vision problems, and death |
| diarrhea |
abnormally watery bowel movements |
| different protein carrier |
protein carriers used in Hib conjugate vaccines include a diphtheria toxoid-like protein (HbOC), tetanus toxoid (PRP-T), or meningococcal outer membrane protein (PRP-OMP); remember -- a protein is linked (conjugated) to a polysaccharide antigen in a vaccine to make the vaccine work better |
| diluent |
a diluting agent (e.g., a liquid) added to reconstitute powdered vaccine |
| diphtheria |
a disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria; may involve infection of any mucous membrane in the body, but most commonly the tonsils and pharynx; marked by the formation of a false membrane, usually in the throat, that can obstruct the airway; most complications, including death, are caused by the effects of the bacteria's toxin on organs in the body |
| diphtheria toxoid |
inactivated C. diphtheriae, which is the toxigenic bacterium that causes diphtheria illness |
| disease |
sickness, illness, or loss of health |
| disease-specific globulin |
the globulin fraction of pooled blood from human donors who have a high titer for antibodies specific for a particular antigen (e.g., VZIG is immune globulin that contains a high titer for antibodies specific for varicella) |
| disseminated |
spread over a large area of a body, a tissue, or an organ |
| DT |
tetanus toxoid and diphtheria toxoid in a pediatric dose |
| DTaP |
diphtheria and tetanus toxoids, and acellular pertussis vaccine |
| DTaP-2 |
the second dose in the DTaP primary series (e.g., DTaP-1 is the first dose, DTaP-2 is the second dose, DTaP-3 is the third dose) |
| DTP |
a vaccine containing diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid, and inactivated whole-cell pertussis, which is no longer available in the United States. Although it was highly effective, it was associated with more severe adverse reactions than DTaP, which contains acellular pertussis vaccine. |
| duration |
continuation or persistence through time; how long a vaccine remains effective in the body |
| efficacy rate |
a measure used to describe how good a vaccine is at preventing disease |
| EL.U. |
ELISA unit (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), which is a measure of viral antigen activity |
| enhanced-potency |
inactivated polio vaccine (eIPV) that contains more antigen than the original IPV (developed by Jonas Salk in the 1950s) |
| encapsulated |
contained within a capsule |
| encephalitis |
inflammation of the brain caused by a virus; encephalitis can result in permanent brain damage or death |
| encephalopathy |
a general term describing brain dysfunction; examples include encephalitis, meningitis, seizures, and head trauma |
| enhanced-potency |
inactivated polio vaccine (eIPV) that contains more antigen than the original IPV (developed by Jonas Salk in the 1950s) |
| epidemic |
occurrence of disease at a level higher than is expected |
| endemic |
the continual, low-level presence of disease in a community |
| endemicity |
the degree to which an area experiences disease at a level higher than is expected |
| enhanced-potency |
inactivated polio vaccine (eIPV) that contains more antigen than the original IPV (developed by Jonas Salk in the 1950s) |
| epidemic |
occurrence of disease at a level higher than is expected |
| epidemics |
occurrence of disease at a level higher than is expected |
| epiglottitis |
severe swelling of the throat structures that makes it difficult to swallow and breathe |
| epitope |
the surface portion of an antigen that can cause an immune response and combine with the antibody produced to counter that response |
| eradicated |
reduction to zero of the worldwide incidence of infection caused by a specific agent as a result of deliberate efforts |
| eradication |
reduction to zero of the worldwide incidence of infection caused by a specific agent as a result of deliberate efforts |
| etiology |
the science and study of the causes or origin of disease |
| exacerbate |
make worse |
| excipient |
an inert substance that forms a vehicle (as for a drug) |
| exposure |
contact with infectious agents (bacteria or viruses) in a manner that promotes transmission and increases the likelihood of disease |
| extremities |
arms and legs |
| false negative |
a negative test result in a person who actually has the disease for which she or he is being tested |
| famciclovir |
antiviral medication used in the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and varicella zoster virus infections |
| fatal |
deadly; resulting in death |
| febrile |
relating to fever; feverish |
| fecal-oral route |
spread of microorganisms from the infected stool of one person into the mouth of another; may occur via fecal contamination of food or water supply, or by hand-to-mouth transmission following inadequate handwashing after touching contaminated items |
| feces |
bowel movement; stool |
| fetal |
pertaining to a fetus, which is a developing human being (or mammal) in the uterus from 3 months after conception to birth |
| fetus |
a developing human being (or other mammal) in the uterus from 3 months after conception to birth |
| fetuses |
developing human beings (or mammals) in the uterus from 3 months after conception to birth |
| fifth cranial nerve |
sensory nerve of the face and the motor nerve of the muscles related to chewing; it has three branches, which extend to the eye, cheek, and jaw |
| flaccid paralysis |
weakening or loss of muscle tone caused by injury or disease to the nerves that supply the muscle |
| fomites |
nonliving objects contaminated with microorganisms that can spread the microorganisms to other persons |
| foodborne |
things carried into the body in food, e.g., types of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and natural and manmade chemicals |
| foreign |
not self; not natural to the body; introduced from outside the body |
| formaldehyde |
a powerful antiseptic and disinfectant often used to kill bacteria or viruses in the manufacture of vaccines |
| foscarnet |
antiviral medication used in the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, varicella zoster virus infections, and several AIDS-related infections |
| freezer box |
special box that helps to maintain a constant temperature; commonly used in frost-free type freezers that may vary in temperature
 |
| fulminant hepatitis A |
severe form of hepatitis A that occurs suddenly and with great intensity; inflammatory destruction of liver tissue rapidly leads to progressive loss of hepatic function |
| gastrointestinal |
relating to the stomach and intestines |
| gelatin |
a colloidal protein used in the production of some vaccines |
| generalized |
spreading through or affecting the whole body |
| generalized malignancy |
cancer that has spread through the body |
| generalized tetanus |
the most common type of tetanus infection; symptoms include descending symptoms of trismus (lockjaw), difficulty swallowing, muscle rigidity, and spasms |
| genetic |
of or relating to genes |
| gestation |
the period from conception to delivery; pregnancy |
| germinate |
to grow or sprout |
| Guillain-Barré syndrome |
a rare neurologic condition, usually temporary, that affects the nerves, causing muscle weakness and paralysis |
| Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) |
also called Hib; bacterium that can cause serious invasive illnesses, such as pneumonia and meningitis; most common in children and persons who are immune compromised (less able to fight off infections) |
| Haemophilus influenzae |
a bacterial infection caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (also known as Hib) that may result in severe respiratory infection, including pneumonia, and other diseases such as meningitis |
| HBsAg |
hepatitis B surface antigen which is part of the outer surface of the hepatitis B virus; this is the most commonly used test for diagnosing HBV infections or detecting carriers |
| hemodialysis |
use of a machine to remove waste products from the blood stream when the kidneys are not working properly |
| hemoglobinopathies |
blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia) caused by a change in the molecular structure of hemoglobin, which is the part of the red blood cell that carries oxygen |
| hematopoietic stem cell |
a cell made by the bone marrow that can differentiate into different kinds of blood cells, as needed by the body |
| hematopoietic stem cell transplant |
treatment procedure by which stem cells are given to a person after all his or her own immune system cells are nearly eliminated |
| hemorrhagic |
diseases or conditions that are caused by or result in hemorrhaging (bleeding) |
| hepatic tenderness |
discomfort in the area of the liver |
| hepatitis A |
a viral infection of the liver that is transmitted by the fecal-oral route; causes flu-like symptoms and liver inflammation; less severe illness than hepatitis B, with most patients recovering completely |
| hepatitis B |
a viral infection of the liver that is transmitted through contact with blood or other body fluids that are infected with the virus; can cause serious illness and permanent liver damage |
| hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) |
a sterile solution of plasma prepared from human blood that contains high levels of hepatitis B antibodies; it is administered to provide passive immunization against hepatitis B in cases of exposure. |
| hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive |
the presence of a hepatitis B antigen in a blood test that indicates that hepatitis B virus is present in the blood; the antigen can indicate either acute or chronic hepatitis B infection |
| hepatitis C |
a liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is found in the blood of persons who have the disease; HCV is spread by contact with the blood of an infected person |
| hepatitis D |
a defective virus that needs the hepatitis B virus to exist; hepatitis D virus (HDV) is found in the blood of persons infected with the virus |
| hepatitis E |
a virus (HEV) transmitted in much the same way as hepatitis A virus; hepatitis E, however, does not often occur in the United States |
| heroin |
a highly addictive narcotic drug, which is illegal in the United States |
| herpes zoster |
a disease characterized by painful skin lesions that occur mainly on the trunk (back and stomach) of the body, but which can also develop on the face and in the mouth; complications include headache, vomiting, fever, and meningitis; recovery may take up to five weeks; herpes zoster is caused by the same virus that is responsible for chickenpox; most persons are exposed to this virus during childhood; after the primary infection (chickenpox), the virus becomes dormant, or inactivated; in some persons the virus reactivates years, or even decades, later and causes herpes zoster, also known as shingles |
| herpesvirus |
any of a group of viruses that cause diseases, such as chickenpox, infectious mononucleosis, herpes simplex, and shingles |
| Hib |
Haemophilus influenzae type b; bacterium that causes serious invasive illnesses, such as pneumonia and meningitis |
| HIV |
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); virus that causes AIDS |
| hives |
itchy, raised, red areas on the skin that can result from an allergic reaction; also known as urticaria |
| Hodgkin’s disease |
a cancer that affects the lymph nodes, liver, and spleen |
| household contact |
a family member or other who lives together |
| household contacts |
family members or others who live together |
| human albumin |
a protein found in blood serum |
| human immunodeficiency virus |
HIV; virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) |
| humoral immunodeficiency |
a condition in which there is a deficiency of B lymphocytes (cells that make antibodies) causing the body to be susceptible to infections |
| hypogammaglobulinemia |
a decreased quantity of the gamma portion of serum globulin, which helps with immune function |
| hypersensitivity |
an excessive or abnormal sensitivity in a body tissue to an antigen or foreign substance |
| Hypertension |
high blood pressure |
| hypoplasia |
incomplete or underdevelopment of an organ or a body part |
| hyposensitivity |
a condition in which the body has a weakened or delayed reaction to a substance |
| hypotension |
low blood pressure |
| hypertension |
low blood pressure |
| hypotonic reaction |
also called "hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode" (HHE); occurs rarely after DTaP vaccination; infants' symptoms include paleness and decreased muscle tone, responsiveness, and activity |
| ibuprofen |
a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, fever, and inflammation; a common brand name is Motrin® |
| icteric |
pertaining to jaundice |
| IgG |
one of the five major classes of antibodies; the main antibody defense against bacteria |
| IgM |
class of antibodies found in circulating body fluids and the first antibodies to appear in response to an initial exposure to an antigen |
| immigrants |
persons who leave one country to settle in another |
| immune |
not susceptible to becoming ill; protected against a disease |
| immune competence |
able to mount a normal immune response, e.g., the ability to develop antibodies in response to antigens |
| immune globulin (IG) |
a sterile solution of plasma prepared from human blood that contains antibodies; it is administered for passive immunization against measles and hepatitis A; there are also disease-specific globulins (e.g., tetanus, rabies, varicella zoster, hepatitis B, and respiratory syncytial virus); was previously called gamma globulin |
| immune memory |
after the immune system is exposed to an antigen, it forms "memory B-cells," which remain in the blood for years; if the antigen enters the body again, the memory B-cells begin to replicate and rapidly produce antibodies to fight off the infection |
| immune response |
also known as an immune reaction; the body's response to an antigen; occurs when infection-fighting cells (lymphocytes) identify an antigen as foreign to the body and cause antibodies to form so that the infection-fighting cells can kill the antigen |
| immune system |
the system in the body that helps to recognize and fight off infections; includes all the cells, tissues, and organs involved in the immune response |
| immunity |
protection against a disease or an infection, usually associated with antibodies or certain cells in the blood that counteract microbes or toxin; can come from an infection with a disease or from a vaccination |
| immunization |
the process by which a person becomes protected against a disease through receipt of a vaccine, toxoid, antibody, or antitoxin |
| immunized |
the process of having induced immunity from receiving a vaccine, toxoid, antibody, or antitoxin |
| immunizing |
the process of inducing immunity by administering a vaccine, toxoid (a toxin that has been modified to make it nontoxic, but which still can stimulate the body to form antibodies), antibody, or antitoxin (a substance that counteracts a toxin or poison; a solution of antibodies prepared from the serum of humans and animals immunized with specific antigens) |
| immunocompetence |
able to mount a normal immune response (e.g., the ability to develop antibodies in response to antigens) |
| immunocompromised |
a state in which the body's defense mechanisms are unable to fight off an infection |
| immunodeficiency |
inadequate immune system functioning |
| immunodeficient |
having inadequate immune system functioning |
| immunogenicity |
the ability of a particular substance to provoke an immune response |
| immunoglobulin G (IgG) |
the most abundant class of antibodies; found in blood serum and lymph; active against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and foreign particles |
| immunologic tolerance |
acquired failure of the body to make antibodies in response to a given antigen; caused by previous exposure to that antigen |
| immunological tolerance |
acquired failure of the body to make antibodies in response to a given antigen; caused by previous exposure to that antigen |
| immunosuppressed |
a condition in which the natural immune (protective) response of the body does not work well; can be caused by disease or medication |
| immunosuppression |
a condition in which the natural immune (protective) response of the body does not work well; can be caused by disease or medication |
| immunosuppressive therapy |
medications or other treatments (e.g., high doses of oral corticosteroids or radiation therapy) that impair the natural immune (protective) responses of the body; can be used to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ |
| imported |
brought in from somewhere else, such as another country |
| inactivated |
dead and unable to replicate and cause disease |
| inactivated whole virus vaccine |
a vaccine made from viruses that are inactivated by chemicals or heat |
| inactivated whole-virus vaccine |
A vaccine made from whole viruses, rather than just viral parts, that are inactivated by chemicals or heat. |
| incidence |
the number of new disease cases reported in a population during a certain period of time |
| inconsolable |
unable to be comforted or made to feel better |
| incubation period |
the length of time between entry of an infectious agent into the body and the beginning of disease symptoms |
| indigenous |
having originated in or occurring naturally in a particular region |
| induce |
to start the production of; to cause |
| infantile spasms |
seizures in infants that usually occur during high fevers and resolve as the child gets older |
| infect |
invade or contaminate by a microorganism |
| infected |
invaded by or contaminated by a microorganism |
| infection |
invasion by or contamination by a microorganism |
| infectious |
capable of spreading disease |
| infectious agents |
organisms capable of spreading disease (e.g., bacteria or viruses) |
| infectivity |
the ability of a microorganism to spread rapidly from one person to another |
| inflammation |
the body's reaction to injury, irritation, or infection characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, and/or pain; caused by accumulation of immune cells and substances around the injury or infection |
| inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) |
a general term for any disease characterized by inflammation of the bowel; examples include colitis and Crohn's disease; symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite, and weight loss |
| influenza |
a highly infectious virus; also the name of a contagious viral illness that causes fever, myalgia, cough, sore throat, headache; can result in complications of pneumonia, Reye syndrome, myocarditis, and death |
| influenza-like symptoms |
fever, body aches, cough, sore throat, and headache |
| injection drug use |
use of non-prescribed drugs, often illegal drugs such as heroin, which are injected into the body, especially the bloodstream |
| interferon |
a chemical (cytokine) produced by virus-infected cells that contributes to the cells' death by apoptosis; can be genetically engineered to create medications that impair the growth and replication of viruses and cancer cells |
| intermittent |
occurring or now and then; a period when a disease is quiet (or a medication is given) in between periods when a disease is active (or a medication is not given) |
| interval |
the amount of time between one dose of vaccine and the next dose of vaccine |
| intradermal |
into the layers of the skin; abbreviated as ID |
| intradermally |
into the layers of the skin; abbreviated as ID |
| intramuscular |
into the muscle
 |
| intramuscularly |
into the muscle |
| intranasal |
into the nose |
| intrauterine |
occurring or located within the uterus |
| intravenous |
into a vein; abbreviated as IV |
| intravenously |
into a vein; abbreviated as IV |
| invasive |
tending to spread in the body |
| iron lung |
an early type of ventilator that encased the body and helped the lungs to expand and contract |
| iron lungs |
an early type of ventilator that encased the body and helped the lungs to expand and contract |
| investigational vaccine |
a vaccine that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in clinical trials on humans; however, investigational vaccines are still in the testing and evaluation phase and are not licensed for use in the general public |
| jaundice |
yellowing of the eyes; this condition is often a symptom of hepatitis infection |
| killed measles vaccine (KMV) |
type of inactivated measles vaccine available before 1968 that was not effective in preventing measles |
| Koplik’s spots |
small, red spots with bluish-white centers found on the inside of the mouth of persons with measles |
| lamivudine |
an antiviral medication |
| lapsed |
deviated from the recommended schedule (e.g., by skipping a dose or being late to get a dose) |
| latent |
existing in a dormant or hidden form, e.g., a microorganism that lives or develops in a host without producing visible symptoms of disease |
| lesion |
an abnormal change in the structure of an organ or tissue caused by disease or injury |
| lesions |
abnormal changes in the structure of an organ or tissue caused by disease or injury |
| leukemia |
a blood cancer in which the number of white blood cells increases excessively |
| live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) |
an influenza vaccine that is attenuated (weakened); produces an immune response without causing the disease; administered intranasally. Influenza is a highly infectious virus; also the name of a contagious viral illess that causes fever, myalgia, cough, sore throat, headache; can result in complications of pneumonia, Reye syndrome, myocarditis, and death |
| live attenuated vaccine |
a vaccine whose biological activity has not been inactivated, but whose ability to cause disease has been weakened |
| live vaccine |
vaccine in which live virus is weakened through chemical or physical processes in order to produce an immune response without causing the severe effects of the disease; attenuated vaccines currently licensed in the United States include measles, mumps, rubella, polio, yellow fever, and varicella; also known as an attenuated vaccine |
| liver |
a vital organ in the right upper abdomen with many functions, which include storing food, removing toxic substances from the body, producing bile, and forming certain blood proteins |
| local adverse reaction |
an unwanted reaction or side effect occurring after vaccination that consists of redness, swelling, a nodule, and/or pain at the injection site |
| local reaction |
a minor adverse reaction that mainly consists of redness, swelling, and pain at the vaccine injection site |
| local reactions |
minor adverse reactions that mainly consist of redness, swelling, and pain at the vaccine injection site |
| local adverse reactions |
minor adverse reactions that mainly consist of redness, swelling, and pain at the vaccine injection site |
| low-grade fever |
fever suggestive of mild illness, typically less than 99.9 - 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit |
| lupus |
a disease characterized by inflammation of the connective tissue (which supports and connects all parts of the body); chronic swelling of the connective tissue causes damage to the skin, joints, kidneys, nervous system, and mucous membranes; the disease begins with fever, joint pain, and fatigue; additional symptoms continue to develop over the years including nausea, fatigue, weight loss, arthritis, headaches, and epilepsy; problems with heart, lung, and kidney function may also result; this condition is diagnosed most frequently in young women but also occurs in children |
| Lyme disease |
a bacterial disease transmitted by infected ticks; symptoms include fatigue, chills, fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and a skin rash (in a circular pattern); long-term problems include arthritis, nervous system abnormalities, irregular heart rhythm, and meningitis |
| lymphadenopathy |
enlargement of the lymph nodes, usually associated with infection or disease |
| lymphatic system |
system of glands, tissues, and vessels in the body that circulates lymph; part of the immune system |
| lymphocytes |
small white blood cells that help the body defend itself against infection; these cells are produced in bone marrow and develop into plasma cells that produce antibodies; also known as B cells |
| lymphoma |
cancer of the lymph tissue |
| lymph nodes |
small round nodes in the lymphatic system that produce white blood cells and filter harmful substances out of the body; infections can cause the lymph nodes to enlarge |
| macular |
of or related to skin lesions, normally red-colored |
| macules |
flat, discolored patches of skin |
| maculopapular |
containing both macules (flat, discolored patches of skin) and papules (small, solid inflammatory elevations of the skin) |
| malaise |
a general feeling of tiredness or fatigue |
| maternal antibodies |
antibodies that are transferred across the placenta from the mother to the fetus before birth |
| mcg |
microgram |
| Mcg (µg) |
microgram |
| mcg%20(µg) |
microgram |
| measles |
also known as "rubeola"; an acute viral infection that causes fever, nasal discharge (coryza), redness of the eyes (conjunctivitis), and a rash; complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis, and death |
| membrane |
in diphtheria, a thin, pliable layer of tissue that may grow and cover the surface of mucous membranes |
| meningitis |
inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by a virus or bacterium |
| meningococcal |
bacterial disease caused by Neiserria meningitidis, which causes meningitis as well as infections elsewhere in the body |
| meningoenephalitis |
inflammation of the brain and meninges (membranes) that involves the encephalon (area inside the skull) and spinal column |
| mental retardation |
below average intelligence (IQ below 70) that is present from birth or infancy and results in developmental delays, learning problems, and problems with social adjustment |
| metabolic diseases |
diseases related to how the body absorbs food and processes it into energy (e.g., diabetes mellitus and inborn errors in metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) |
| microcephaly |
small head; usually reflects an underlying reduction in the size of the brain |
| microorganisms |
tiny organisms (including bacteria and viruses) that can only be seen with a microscope |
| miscarriage |
the end of a pregnancy caused by defects of the fetus or womb before the fetus can survive outside the womb |
| MMR vaccine |
a combination vaccine that contains vaccines for measles, mumps and rubella |
| mortality rate |
the fraction of persons who die from a particular cause |
| mucosa |
the soft, wet tissue that lines body openings, specifically the mouth, nose, rectum and eye |
| mucous membrane |
the lining of openings such as the nose, mouth, digestive tract, urinary tract, and eye |
| mucous membranes |
the linings of openings such as the nose, mouth, digestive tract, urinary tract, and eye |
| mucosal cells |
cells that line the mucous membranes along the passageways and tracts to the outside of the body, and which secrete mucus |
| mucosal membranes |
the soft, wet tissue that lines body openings, specifically the mouth, nose, rectum, and vagina |
| multidose vaccine |
a vaccine that, in order to cause an immune response, must be given in multiple doses within a period of time; inactivated vaccines are usually multidose vaccines |
| multiple sclerosis |
a disease of the central nervous system characterized by the destruction of the myelin sheath surrounding neurons, resulting in the formation of "plaques"; MS is a progressive and usually fluctuating disease with exacerbations (patients feeling worse) and remissions (patients feeling better) over many decades; eventually, in most patients, remissions do not reach baseline levels and permanent disability and sometimes death occurs; the cause of MS is unknown; the most widely held hypothesis is that MS occurs in patients with a genetic susceptibility and that some environmental factors "trigger" exacerbations; MS is three times more common in women than men, with diagnosis usually made in young adults; also see demyelinating disorders |
| mumps |
an acute viral infection that results in fever and swelling of the parotid (salivary) glands; also can cause testicular swelling, meningoencephalitis, pancreatitis, and heart and thyroid involvement |
| myalgia |
muscle pains |
| myocarditis |
inflammation of the heart muscle |
| Neisseria meningitidis |
a bacterium that causes meningitis, as well as infections elsewhere in the body |
| nasal |
of or related to the nose |
| nasopharyngeal |
related to or coming from the back of the nose and throat |
| nasopharynx |
the area in the back of the nose and throat |
| neurologic |
having to do with the nerves or the nervous system |
| neuromuscular |
refers to nerves and muscles |
| neuropathy |
a general term for any dysfunction in the peripheral nervous system; symptoms include pain, muscle weakness, numbness, loss of coordination, and paralysis; this condition may result in permanent disability |
| nausea |
stomach distress with distaste for food and an urge to vomit |
| neomycin |
an antibiotic that is used in the manufacture of some vaccines |
| neonatal tetanus |
tetanus that occurs in a newborn infant |
| nephritis |
inflammation of the kidney, which is the organ in the body that regulates water and electrolyte balance, acid-base concentration, and the filtration of waste products out of the blood to be excreted in the urine |
| neuritis |
inflammation of a nerve or group of nerves, characterized by pain, loss of reflexes, and atrophy of the affected muscles |
| neurologic reaction |
a reaction involving the nervous system, such as paralysis, encephalopathy, or Guillain-Barré syndrome |
| neuropathy |
a general term for any dysfunction in the peripheral nervous system; symptoms include pain, muscle weakness, numbness, loss of coordination, and paralysis; this condition may result in permanent disability |
| nodule |
a small, knot-like lump |
| nonparalytic |
not causing paralysis |
| nonresponders |
refers to person who do not form protective antibodies after receiving a vaccine series |
| nonspecific allergies |
allergy symptoms not caused by a specific, known allergen (substance that produces an allergic response) |
| nonspecific symptoms |
symptoms that are not specific to one certain disease, such as fever, fatigue, or nausea |
| nontoxic |
something that does not produce toxins (poisons) |
| nostril |
one of the two external openings of the nose |
| obstruct |
block |
| off-label use |
physician use of a product, such as a vaccine, for an indication not in the approved labeling |
| oophoritis |
inflammation of an ovary, which is the gland in the female that produces eggs |
| optic neuritis |
a medical condition in which vision deteriorates rapidly over hours or days due to the demyelination of optic nerves; one or both eyes may be affected; in most cases, the cause of optic neuritis is unknown; patients may regain their vision or be left with permanent impairment; also see demyelinating disorders |
| oral |
by mouth |
| orchitis |
a complication of mumps infection occurring in males (who are beyond puberty); symptoms begin 7-10 days after onset of mumps and include inflammation of the testicles, headache, nausea, vomiting, pain, and fever; most patients recover, but in rare cases sterility occurs |
| osteomyelitis |
infection in the bone and bone marrow |
| otitis media |
a viral or bacterial infection that leads to inflammation of the middle ear |
| outbreak |
sudden appearance of a disease in a specific geographic area (e.g., neighborhood or community) or population (e.g., adolescents) |
| outbreaks |
sudden appearance of a disease in specific geographic areas (e.g., neighborhoods or communities) or populations (e.g., adolescents) |
| over-the-counter |
something that can be purchased without a prescription |
| packed red blood cells |
a unit of blood from which most of the plasma has been removed, leaving a higher percentage of red blood cells; used in the treatment of anemia |
| pancreatitis |
inflammation of the pancreas, which is a gland in the abdomen that secretes insulin, glucagon, and pancreatic juices |
| pandemic |
an epidemic occurring over a very large area |
| pandemics |
epidemics occurring over a very large area |
| papular |
marked by small, red-colored elevation of the skin |
| papules |
small, solid inflammatory elevations of the skin |
| parasthesia |
a sensation of numbness, tingling, or burning along a nerve root |
| parotid |
either of a pair of major salivary glands situated below and in front of each ear and opening into the parotid duct; the largest of the major salivary glands |
| parotitis |
inflammation of the salivary glands, which are located below and in front of the ear, resulting in swelling and tenderness |
| particulate matter |
small particles that are visible in a solution |
| passive immunity |
protection against disease through antibodies produced by another human or animal; passive immunity is effective, but protection diminishes with time (usually within several weeks or months) |
| passive maternal antibodies |
antibodies that are transferred across the placenta from the mother to the fetus before birth; provide temporary protection from certain diseases |
| pediatric |
related to infants, children, and adolescents |
| percutaneous |
through or by way of the skin, including needle sticks, bites, and breaking of the skin with sharp objects |
| peripheral neuropathy |
disease or dysfunction in the peripheral nerves (nerves outside the spinal cord); symptoms include numbness, burning, pain, and loss of reflexes |
| permanent |
irreversible; something that continues without changing |
| permucosal |
through the mucus membranes |
| perinatal |
of, relating to, or being the period around childbirth |
| pertussis |
an infectious bacterial disease caused by Bordetella pertussis that produces violent, spasmodic coughing; also called whooping cough. |
| petechiae |
a tiny reddish or purplish spot on the skin or mucous membrane; commonly part of infectious diseases such as typhoid fever |
| pharynx |
throat |
| photophobia |
abnormal painful sensitivity to light |
| placebo |
a harmless substance (e.g., sterile saline) used in controlled experiments to test the effectiveness of another substance, in this case influenza vaccine |
| placenta |
a blood-rich structure present in the uterus during pregnancy that supplies the fetus with oxygen, nutrients, and other substances |
| platelet |
a small, flat disk in the blood that aids in blood clotting |
| pneumococcal |
bacterial diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae; pneumococcal diseases include pneumococcal pneumonia, pneumococcal bacteremia, and pneumococcal meningitis, which all cause significant illness and death; also causes otitis media in children |
| pneumonia |
inflammation of the lungs, often caused by infection with viruses or bacteria |
| polio |
a highly infectious viral disease that causes inflammation of the motor nerves in the brain and spinal cord, leading to paralysis, muscle wasting, and sometimes death |
| poliomyelitis (polio) |
a highly infectious viral disease that causes inflammation of the motor nerves in the brain and spinal cord, leading to paralysis, muscle wasting, and sometimes death |
| polymyxin B |
an antibiotic that is used in the manufacture of some vaccines |
| polysaccharide capsule |
a protective covering made out of sugar molecules that surrounds some bacteria |
| polysaccharide vaccine |
vaccines that are composed of long chains of sugar molecules that resemble the surface of certain types of bacteria; polysaccharide vaccines are available for pneumococcal disease, meningococcal disease, and Haemophilus influenzae type b |
| polysaccharide vaccines |
vaccines that are composed of long chains of sugar molecules that resemble the surface of certain types of bacteria; polysaccharide vaccines are available for pneumococcal disease, meningococcal disease and Haemophilus influenzae type b |
| polysaccharide conjugate vaccine |
a vaccine in which proteins that the immune system can recognize are conjugated (joined) to the outer polysaccharide coat of a disease-causing microorganism to improve the immune response from the vaccine |
| postexposure prophylaxis |
treatment provided after exposure to an infective organism that helps to prevent infection or disease |
| postpolio syndrome |
a condition that affects up to 40% of persons who survive paralytic polio; can develop as late as 40 years after the initial recovery; symptoms vary from mild weakness to severe disability |
| postpubertal |
after puberty, which is the period in which the onset of sexual maturity occurs |
| potency |
strength |
| precaution |
a condition in a recipient that may result in a life-threatening problem if the vaccine is given, or a condition that could compromise the ability of the vaccine to produce immunity |
| precautions |
conditions in a recipient that may result in a life-threatening problem if the vaccine is given, or conditions that could compromise the ability of the vaccine to produce immunity |
| preicteric |
before jaundice begins |
| prenatal |
occurring before birth, either prior to pregnancy or during the time between pregnancy and birth |
| prevalence |
the number of disease cases (new and existing) within a population over a given time period |
| primary |
occurring first |
| primary attack rate |
incidence of cases occurring that are not caused by close contact with a household member |
| primary series |
a series of several vaccine doses initially needed to establish immunity |
| primary viremia |
the first occurrence of viral replication and presence of virus in the bloodstream |
| prodromal |
an early symptom indicating the onset of an attack or a disease |
| prodrome |
a symptom indicating the onset of a disease |
| progressive encephalopathy |
worsening symptoms of encephalopathy, which is a diffuse disease of the brain |
| progressive neurologic disorder |
any disorder of the brain or nervous system that is becoming worse, is unstable, or is untreated; includes seizures, coma, paralysis, infantile spasms, and encephalopathy |
| prophylaxis |
prevention of disease |
| protein carrier |
a protein that is linked (conjugated) to a purified polysaccharide; produces a better immune response in children younger than 2 years of age |
| pulmonary |
related to the lungs |
| purpuric |
hemorrhages into the skin that cause purple spots or patches |
| quarantine |
the isolation of a person or animal who has a disease (or is suspected of having a disease) in order to prevent further spread of the disease |
| rabies |
a usually fatal viral infection of the central nervous system that is transmitted by contact with the saliva of an infected animal (e.g., through a bite) |
| radiation therapy |
x-ray treatment; the treatment of disease (e.g., cancer) using radiation |
| recipient |
a person who receives a vaccine |
| recipients |
persons who receive vaccines |
| recombinant |
of or resulting from new combinations of genetic material or cells; the genetic material produced when segments of DNA from different sources are joined to produce recombinant DNA |
| recombinant DNA |
use of new combinations of genetic material or cells produced when genetic material (segments of DNA) from different sources are joined to produce recombinant DNA |
| reconstitute |
to restore by the addition of liquid to a powdered form of a vaccine or drug |
| reconstituted |
restored by the addition of liquid to a powdered form of a vaccine or drug |
| reconstitution |
restoration by the addition of liquid to a powdered form of a vaccine or drug |
| recurrent |
recurring or appearing again |
| refrigerant |
a substance used as a cooling agent |
| renal |
related to the kidneys |
| replicate |
multiply or reproduce |
| replicates |
multiplies or reproduces |
| replicating |
multiplying or reproducing |
| resistance |
the power to resist, e.g., to resist the effects of a microorganism or a medication |
| respiratory |
related to the body's breathing system, including the mouth, nose, pharynx, and lungs |
| respiratory secretions |
substances, such as nasal drainage, mucus, or phlegm, that are secreted by the respiratory system |
| respiratory tract |
the body's breathing system, including the mouth, nose, pharynx, and lungs |
| Reye syndrome |
encephalopathy (general brain disorder) in children following an acute illness such as influenza or chickenpox; symptoms include vomiting, agitation, and lethargy; this condition may result in coma or death |
| RhoGam® |
brand name for Rh-immune globulin which contains antibodies to the Rh D factor; these antibodies will destroy any red blood cells from the fetus that have entered the mother's blood so that she will not have a chance to form her own antibodies to the Rh D factor; used when fetus is Rh D factor positive (positive blood type) and mother is Rh D factor negative |
| risk |
the likelihood that a person will experience a certain event |
| rotate stock |
move vaccines with the shortest expiration dates to the front of the vaccine storage unit so that they are used first, and move vaccines with longer expiration dates to the back of the vaccine storage unit |
| rotavirus |
a virus that is a common cause of diarrhea in infants and young children. In the U.S., results in about 50,000 hospitalizations among children less than 5 years of age; because of an association between the vaccine and intussusception (bowel obstruction) among some infants in the first 1 to 2 weeks after vaccination, the vaccine is no longer approved for use in the U.S. |
| rubella |
also known as "German measles"; a usually mild viral disease that causes fever and skin rash; if it occurs during early pregnancy, it can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), which can result in congenital defects, fetal death, spontaneous abortion, and stillbirth; up to 85% of infants infected with rubella in the first trimester will have CRS-related problems, including deafness, cataracts, heart defects, microcephaly, mental retardation, bone alterations, and liver and spleen damage |
| salicylate |
any of a group of drugs used to reduce pain and fever that are derived from salicylic acid; best known is acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) |
| saliva |
spit; oral secretions from the salivary glands |
| salivary |
of or related to a gland that secretes saliva, especially any of three pairs of large glands: the parotid, submaxillary, and sublingual |
| sanitary |
free of dirt, a clean environment |
| satisfactory documentation |
satisfactory documentation includes recovery of B. pertussis on culture or typical symptoms and clinical course when epidemiologically linked to a culture-proven case |
| screened |
having asked a person questions to see whether he or she has ever had a disease or condition |
| screening |
asking a person questions to see whether he or she has ever had a disease or condition |
| secondary bacterial infections |
infections, caused by bacteria, that occur during or after a primary infection; can result from treatments for the primary infection or from immune system alterations |
| secondary viremia |
the second occurrence of viral replication and presence of virus in the bloodstream |
| secretions |
substance, such as nasal drainage or mucus, that is secreted by the respiratory system |
| seizure |
the sudden onset of jerking or staring spells; also known as convulsions; seizures have many causes, including fever and epilepsy |
| seizures |
the sudden onset of jerking or staring spells; also known as convulsions; seizures have many causes, including fever and epilepsy |
| self-limited |
a disease or condition that resolves during a specific time period, usually without specific treatment |
| semen |
whitish fluid discharged through the penis during sexual activity |
| sensory nerve ganglia |
a collection of nerves outside the spinal cord that carry sensory information, such as pain, to the spinal cord |
| sequelae |
the aftereffects of a disease or injury, e.g., seizures can be sequelae of meningitis |
| serum |
he clear fluid portion of the blood that remains after clotting; serum contains antibodies, which confer passive immunity if injected into another person |
| severe allergic reaction |
An immediate and severe allergic reaction to a substance (e.g., food or drugs). Also known as anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness and a drop in blood pressure. This condition can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention |
| sterility |
the inability to reproduce (have children) |
| seroconversion |
development of antibodies in the blood of a person who previously did not have detectable antibodies |
| seroconvert |
the development of antibodies in the blood of an person who previously did not have detectable antibodies |
| serogroups |
groups of organisms that share a common set of antigens |
| serologic assay |
testing done on blood serum, which is the plasma (clear part) of the blood that does not contain fibrinogen or blood cells; this test is done to look for antibodies |
| serologic markers |
antibodies or antigens found in the blood |
| serologic testing |
testing done on blood serum, which is the plasma (clear part) of the blood that does not contain fibrinogen or blood cells; this test is done to look for antibodies |
| serology |
measurement of antibodies, and other immunological properties, in the blood serum |
| serotypes |
the classification of a microorganism based on the kinds and combinations of antigens present in the cell |
| severe allergic reaction |
an immediate and severe allergic reaction to a substance (e.g. food or drugs); also known as anaphylaxis; symptoms of anaphylaxis include breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness and a drop in blood pressure; this condition can be fatal and requires immediate medical attention |
| shelf life |
the period during which a stored item remains effective, useful, or suitable for use |
| shock |
a serious reaction to illness, trauma, loss of blood, or dehydration that causes a drop in blood pressure and inadequate circulation in the body |
| shock-like state |
symptoms that resemble shock, such as a steep drop in blood pressure and inadequate circulation in the body |
| sickle cell disease |
an inherited disorder of the red blood cells that causes anemia |
| side effect |
undesirable reaction resulting from immunization |
| SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) |
an acronym for sudden infant death syndrome (younger than 1 year of age), which is the unexpected and sudden death of a normal and healthy infant that occurs during sleep with no evidence of disease |
| simultaneous administration |
giving more than one vaccine at the same time with a different syringe and into a different site on the body |
| simultaneously |
at the same time |
| single antigen |
a vaccine that contains only one antigen (e.g., rubella vaccine), as opposed to a vaccine that contains more than one type of antigen (e.g., combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine or combined diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine) |
| single-antigen |
a vaccine that contains only one antigen (e.g., rubella vaccine), as opposed to a vaccine that contains more than one type of antigen (e.g., combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine or combined diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccine) |
| smallpox |
an acute viral illness caused by the variola virus; early symptoms include high fever and fatigue, then a characteristic rash, particularly on the face, arms and legs; historically, the fatality rate is 30%; natural smallpox has been eradicated |
| smallpox vaccine |
a vaccine used to prevent smallpox that is administered using a jabbing technique with a special needle (bifurcated); smallpox vaccine results in a skin reaction that includes the appearance of a pustular lesion |
| smallpox vaccine take |
a reaction at the site of smallpox vaccination that indicates the vaccine has been effective; if, 6 to 8 days after vaccination, there is a pustular lesion present at the vaccine administration site, the reaction is interpreted as "a take" |
| sorbitol |
an alcohol used in the manufacture of some vaccines |
| spasms |
involuntary muscle contractions |
| spinal polio |
a form of paralytic polio that affects the nerve endings in the spinal column that lead to the arms and legs |
| spleen |
an abdominal organ in the lymphatic system that filters the blood, removes infectious agents and uses them to activate cells called lymphocytes, removes worn-out red blood cells, and stores extra blood in the body |
| spleens |
abdominal organs in the lymphatic system that filters the blood, removes infectious agents and uses them to activate cells called lymphocytes, removes worn-out red blood cells, and stores extra blood in the body |
| split-virus |
split-virus influenza vaccine is made from whole-virus vaccine, which is further treated with chemicals to break the viruses into pieces |
| splenectomy |
surgical removal of the spleen |
| spore-forming bacterium |
a type of bacterium that can form a tough, protective coat around its essential matter to allow survival for long periods of time in unfavorable conditions |
| standard precautions |
use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves, masks, goggles or gowns, when performing tasks which may result in exposure to blood or other body fluids |
| stem cell |
a cell made by the bone marrow that can differentiate into different kinds of blood cells, as needed by the body |
| stem cells |
cells made by the bone marrow that can differentiate into different kinds of blood cells, as needed by the body |
| sterile |
free from live microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi |
| sterile technique |
procedures used to reduce and maintain objects and areas as free from microorganisms as possible; includes thorough handwashing and use of a sterile field, sterile gloves, and sterile instruments |
| steroid therapy |
drugs given to mimic or augment the effects of naturally occurring corticosteroids, which are produced in the cortex of the adrenal gland; actions include: increasing sodium retention and potassium excretion, affecting carbohydrate and fat metabolism, reducing tissue inflammation, and suppressing the immune system |
| stillbirth |
the birth of a fetus that died before or during delivery |
| stool |
bowel movement; feces |
| strain |
a specific version of an organism; many diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, have multiple strains |
| strains |
specific versions of an organism; many diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, have multiple strains |
| streptomycin |
an antibiotic that is used in the manufacture of some vaccines |
| subacute sclerosing panencephalitis |
an uncommon, slow infection caused by measles virus; causes brain swelling, personality changes, seizures, and blindness; no known treatment |
| subclinical |
the presence of an infection without symptoms; also known as an inapparent or asymptomatic infection |
| subcutaneous |
into the area just beneath the skin (dermis) into the fatty, connective tissue
 |
| subcutaneously |
into the area just beneath the skin (dermis) into the fatty, connective tissue |
| suboptimal |
less than desired levels or less than the desired response |
| subunit |
a small piece of the whole; subunit vaccines are made from portions of viruses or bacteria |
| sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) |
unexpected and sudden death of a normal and healthy infant, younger than 1 year of age, that occurs during sleep with no evidence of disease |
| supportive care |
care that is provided to keep a person alive and comfortable while an illness runs its course; care that relieves symptoms |
| surveillance |
close and continuous observation or testing |
| susceptible |
having little or no resistance to a disease |
| symptom |
a physical manifestation of a disorder or disease, such as fever or cough |
| symptoms |
physical manifestations of a disorder or disease, such as fever or cough |
| systemic |
generalized events, including fever, malaise, myalgias (muscle pain), headache, loss of appetite, and others; these symptoms are common and nonspecific, and may occur in vaccinated persons because of the vaccine, or may be caused by something unrelated to the vaccine, such as a concomitant viral infection |
| TB skin test |
antigen from dead tuberculosis (TB) bacteria that is injected into the skin to test whether a person has ever been infected by TB bacteria; also called tuberculin skin testing or PPD (purified protein derivative) testing |
| Td |
tetanus toxoid vaccine combined with diphtheria vaccine; used for tetanus and diphtheria immunization of persons older than 7 years of age |
| teratogenic |
substances which may cause malformations of an embryo or fetus |
| terminal complement component deficiencies |
condition in which a critical portion of the immune system that helps to destroy invading bacteria is not functional because certain pieces are not made or are missing |
| tetanus |
also called "lock jaw"; an acute, infectious disease of the nervous system in which toxins produced by Clostridium tetani bacteria (which usually enter the body through a wound) can cause severe muscle spasms leading to death |
| tetanus toxoid |
inactivated C. tetani, which is the toxigenic bacterium that causes the symptoms of tetanus disease |
| tetanus immune globulin (TIG) |
a sterile solution of immune globulin obtained from the blood of persons who have been immunized with tetanus toxoid and who have a high tetanus antibody titer; used for passive immunization and tetanus prophylaxis |
| tetanus postexposure prophylaxis |
administration of tetanus toxoid and/or tetanus immune globulin to prevent tetanus caused by C. tetani |
| tetanus prophylaxis |
administration of tetanus toxoid and/or tetanus immune globulin to prevent tetanus caused by C. tetani |
| theoretical risk |
something that possibly could happen according to theory, but for which there is no evidence it has ever happened in reality; for example, there is no evidence that any live vaccine has ever caused birth defects but, in theory, a possibility exists that it could happen |
| thimerosal |
a mercury-containing preservative that has been used in some vaccines and other products since the 1930s; there is no evidence that the low concentrations of thimerosal in vaccines have caused any harm other than minor reactions such as redness or swelling at the injection site; however, in July 1999 the U.S. Public Health Service, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and vaccine manufacturers agreed that thimerosal should be reduced or eliminated from vaccines as a precautionary measure; today, all routinely recommended childhood vaccines manufactured for the U.S. market contain either no thimerosal or only trace amounts |
| thrombocytopenic purpura |
a systemic illness that causes bleeding into the mucous membranes and skin, which causes petechiae (pinpoint size bruises) or larger bruises; associated with decreased platelets in the blood, prolonged bleeding times, anemia, and weakness |
| thrombocytopenia |
a decreased number of platelets in the blood, which can be associated with bleeding |
| titer |
measures of the amount of antibody against a specific antigen in the blood; a blood test that shows rising titers usually means that a specific disease is present and that the body is making antibodies to fight the disease |
| tonsils |
glandular tissue located on both sides of the throat that helps the body to fight infection by trapping bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth and nose |
| topical |
applied directly onto a body part, such as the skin or mucous membranes |
| toxin |
a poison produced by a living organism |
| toxins |
poisons produced by a living organism |
| toxoid |
a toxin that has been modified to make it nontoxic but which still can stimulate the body to form antitoxins |
| toxoids |
toxins that have been modified to make them nontoxic but which still can stimulate the body to form antitoxins |
| trace |
barely detectable; an extremely small amount |
| transfusion |
the transfer of whole blood or blood products obtained from one person to another person |
| transfusions |
the transfer of whole blood or blood products obtained from one person to another person |
| transmission |
spread from person to person |
| transmit |
spread from person to person |
| transmitted |
spread from person to person |
| transplant |
transferring cells, tissues, or organs from one person to another person |
| trimester |
a period of 3 months; human pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each 3 months long |
| trivalent |
refers to a vaccine containing three components |
| TT |
single-antigen tetanus toxoid vaccine; rarely used |
| tuberculosis (TB) |
an infectious bacterial disease; mainly affects the lungs, but can affect bones, joints and other parts of the body; treatable in most cases with antibiotics |
| tuberculin skin test |
antigen from dead tuberculosis (TB) bacteria that is injected into the skin to test whether a person has ever been infected by TB bacteria; also called tuberculin skin testing or PPD (purified protein derivative) testing |
| turbidity |
the state of being cloudy-looking or murky; containing sediment suspended in the liquid |
| typhoid |
an acute infectious disease spread in contaminated food and water; characterized by fever, headache, gastrointestinal bleeding, coughing, and spots on the skin |
| typhoid Vi |
an inactivated polysaccharide vaccine that is administered by injection to prevent typhoid, which is an acute infectious disease caused by Salmonella typhi (a bacterium that spreads in contaminated food and water) |
| umbilical stump |
the small piece of umbilical cord that is left attached to the newborn after the cord is cut |
| uncontrolled epilepsy |
a seizure disorder that is not controlled, resulting in continued, periodic seizures |
| unencapsulated |
not contained within a capsule |
| unhygienic |
not clean and sanitary |
| unilateral |
affecting only one side, as in one side of the body |
| upper respiratory infection |
a "cold"; there are more than 200 different viruses that cause colds |
| urticaria |
the eruption of red marks on the skin that are usually accompanied by itching; this condition can be caused by an allergy (e.g., to food or drugs), stress, infection or physical agents (e.g., heat or cold); also known as hives |
| uterus |
the female reproductive organ in the lower abdomen where the fetus develops until birth |
| vaccination |
the process of administering a vaccine or toxoid (a toxin that has been modified to make it nontoxic, but which still can stimulate the body to form antibodies) to induce immunity to infection or disease |
| vaccine-associated paralytic polio (VAPP) |
a form of paralytic polio that is caused by polio vaccine virus found in live attenuated oral polio vaccine |
| vaccinee |
someone who is given a vaccine |
| vaccinees |
persons who are given a vaccine |
| vaccine |
a preparation of weakened or killed bacteria or viruses, or parts of bacteria or viruses, given to prevent or lessen the severity of an infectious disease |
| vaccines |
preparations of weakened or killed bacteria or viruses, or parts of bacteria or viruses, given to prevent or lessen the severity of an infectious disease |
| vaccine virus |
virus used to make vaccine; often a weakened form of the naturally occurring virus |
| Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) |
a database managed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration; VAERS provides a mechanism for the collection and analysis of adverse events associated with vaccines currently licensed in the United States; reports to VAERS can be made by the vaccine manufacturer, recipient, their parent/guardian or health care provider; for more information on VAERS call (800) 822-7967 |
| vaccinia (smallpox) |
an acute infectious disease caused by the variola virus. Smallpox vaccine does not contain variola virus. The smallpox vaccine currently available in the U.S. is a live virus preparation of infectious vaccinia vaccine, which offers cross-protection against smallpox. Early symptoms of smallpox include high fever and fatigue, then a characteristic rash, particularly on the face, arms, and legs; natural smallpox disease has been eradicated |
| vaginal secretions |
secretions produced by the cells of the vagina |
| valacyclovir |
antiviral medication used in the treatment of herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and varicella zoster virus infections |
| varicella |
an acute, highly contagious viral infection, usually of childhood, that causes fever, skin lesions, and malaise; caused by varicella zoster virus; also called chickenpox |
| varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG) |
a blood product made from antibodies against varicella zoster virus that have been pooled from the blood serum of multiple persons who have high levels of varicella zoster virus antibodies; used to provide temporary protection against varicella disease |
| vastus lateralis |
the large muscle on the front and side of the thigh; this site is primarily used in infants
 |
| vesicles |
small elevations of the outer layer of skin enclosing fluid-filled blisters |
| vesicular |
characterized by small elevations of the skin containing fluid (blisters) |
| vial |
a small, sealed container that holds powders or liquids |
| vials |
small, sealed containers that hold powders or liquids |
| viral |
related to or caused by a virus |
| viremia |
the presence of a virus in the blood |
| virulence |
the relative capacity of a pathogen to overcome body defenses |
| virus |
a simple microorganism, consisting of only genetic material surrounded by a protein coat, that can cause disease; viruses are not affected by antibiotics, the drugs used to kill bacteria |
| viruses |
simple microorganisms, consisting only of genetic material surrounded by a protein coat, that can cause disease; viruses are not affected by antibiotics, the drugs used to kill bacteria |
| vomiting |
"throwing up"; ejecting the contents of the stomach through the mouth |
| wanes |
gradually decreases with time |
| wild poliovirus |
a strain of poliovirus that occurs naturally; not vaccine-related |
| wild varicella zoster virus |
varicella zoster virus that occurs naturally; not the attenuated varicella zoster virus used in the vaccine |
| wild virus |
a strain of virus that occurs naturally; not vaccine-related |
| wild-virus |
a strain of virus that occurs naturally; not vaccine-related |
| whole cell |
the entire cell; whole-cell vaccines are made using entire viruses or bacteria, usually in an inactivated or weakened form |
| yeast |
an excipient (a diluent or vehicle for a drug) used as a growth medium for hepatitis B vaccine |
| yellow fever |
an infectious tropical disease transmitted by mosquitoes; characterized by high fever, jaundice, and gastrointestinal bleeding |
