Conservapedia:CDC Vaccine Glossary (Plagiarized Articles)

[edit] Conservapedia Articles

[edit] CDC Glossary

Acellular vaccine is a vaccine containing partial cellular material as opposed to complete cells.^[3]

Acellular vaccine-- A vaccine containing partial cellular material as opposed to complete cells.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)-- A medical condition where the immune system cannot function properly and protect the body from disease. As a result, the body cannot defend itself against infections (like pneumonia). AIDS is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus is spread through direct contact with the blood and body fluids of an infected individual. High risk activities include unprotected sexual intercourse and intravenous drug use (sharing needles). There is no cure for AIDS, however, research efforts are on-going to develop a vaccine.

Active immunity is the production of antibodies against a specific disease by the immune system. Active immunity can be acquired in two ways, either by contracting the disease or through vaccination.

Active immunity is usually permanent, meaning an individual is protected from the disease for the duration of their lives.^[4]

Active immunity-- The production of antibodies against a specific disease by the immune system. Active immunity can be acquired in two ways, either by contracting the disease or through vaccination. Active immunity is usually permanent, meaning an individual is protected from the disease for the duration of their lives.

Acute-- A short-term, intense health effect.

Adjuvant is a substance (e.g. aluminum salt) that is added during production to increase the body's immune response to a vaccine. ^[5]

Adjuvant-- A substance (e.g. aluminum salt) that is added during production to increase the body's immune response to a vaccine.

Adverse events are undesirable experiences occurring after immunization that may or may not be related to the vaccine. ^[6]

Adverse events-- Undesirable experiences occurring after immunization that may or may not be related to the vaccine.

Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is a panel of 10 experts who make recommendations on the use of vaccines in the United States. The panel is advised on current issues by representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, National Institutes of Health, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Medical Association and others.

The recommendations of the ACIP guide immunization practice at the federal, state and local level, and in some states automatically trigger vaccination requirements.^[7]

Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)-- A panel of 10 experts who make recommendations on the use of vaccines in the United States. The panel is advised on current issues by representatives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Food and Drug Administration, National Institutes of Health, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Medical Association and others. The recommendations of the ACIP guide immunization practice at the federal, state and local level.

Allergy is a condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (e.g. food or drug). Allergy is also known as hypersensitivity.^[8]

Allergy-- A condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (e.g. food or drug). Also known as hypersensitivity.

Anaphylaxis is an immediate and severe allergic reaction to a substance (e.g. food or drugs). 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.^[9]

Anaphylaxis-- An immediate and severe allergic reaction to a substance (e.g. food or drugs). 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.

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax most commonly occurs in hoofed mammals and can also infect humans.^[10]

Anthrax-- An acute infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax most commonly occurs in hoofed mammals and can also infect humans.

Antibiotic-- A substance that fights bacteria.

Antibody-- A protein found in the blood that is produced in response to foreign substances (e.g. bacteria or viruses) invading the body. Antibodies protect the body from disease by binding to these organisms and destroying them.

Antigens are 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. ^[11]

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.

Antitoxin are antibodies capable of destroying microorganisms including viruses and bacteria. ^[12]

Antitoxin-- Antibodies capable of destroying microorganisms including viruses and bacteria.

Antiviral (literally, "against-virus") is any medicine capable of destroying or weakening a virus. ^[13]

Antiviral-- Literally "against-virus" -- any medicine capable of destroying or weakening a virus.

Arthralgia is joint pain. ^[14]

Arthralgia-- Joint pain.

Arthritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the joints which results in pain and difficulty moving.^[15]

Arthritis-- A medical condition characterized by inflammation of the joints which results in pain and difficulty moving.

An association in statistics is the degree to which the occurrence of two variables or events is linked. Association describes a situation where the likelihood of one event occurring depends on the presence of another event or variable.

However, an association between two variables does not necessarily imply a cause and effect relationship. The term association and relationship are often used interchangeably.^[16]

Association-- The degree to which the occurrence of two variables or events is linked. Association describes a situation where the likelihood of one event occurring depends on the presence of another event or variable. However, an association between two variables does not necessarily imply a cause and effect relationship. The term association and relationship are often used interchangeably. See causal and temporal association.

Asthma is a chronic medical condition where the bronchial tubes (in the lungs) become easily irritated. This leads to constriction of the airways resulting in wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and production of thick mucus.

The cause of asthma is not yet known but environmental triggers, drugs, food allergies, exercise, infection and stress have all been implicated.^[17]

Asthma-- A chronic medical condition where the bronchial tubes (in the lungs) become easily irritated. This leads to constriction of the airways resulting in wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing and production of thick mucus. The cause of asthma is not yet known but environmental triggers, drugs, food allergies, exercise, infection and stress have all been implicated.

Asymptomatic infection is the presence of an infection without symptoms. It is also known as inapparent or subclinical infection.^[18]

Asymptomatic infection-- The presence of an infection without symptoms. Also known as inapparent or subclinical infection.

An attenuated vaccine is a 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.

An attenuated vaccine is also known as a live vaccine.^[19]

Attenuated vaccine-- A 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 a live vaccine.

Autism-- A 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 many experts believe it to be a genetically based disorder that occurs before birth.

B cells are small white blood cells that help the body defend itself against infection. These cells are produced in bone marrow and develop into plasma cells which produce antibodies.

B cells are also known as B lymphocytes.^[20]

B cells-- Small white blood cells that help the body defend itself against infection. These cells are produced in bone marrow and develop into plasma cells which produce antibodies. Also known as B lymphocytes.

Bacteria are tiny one-celled organisms present throughout the environment that require a microscope to be seen. While not all bacteria are harmful, some cause disease. Examples of bacterial disease include diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Haemophilus influenza and pneumococcus (pneumonia).^[21]

Bacteria-- Tiny one-celled organisms present throughout the environment that require a microscope to be seen. While not all bacteria are harmful, some cause disease. Examples of bacterial disease include diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Haemophilus influenza and pneumococcus (pneumonia).

[edit] Statistics

Bias means flaws in the collection, analysis or interpretation of research data that lead to incorrect conclusions. ^[22]

Bias-- Flaws in the collection, analysis or interpretation of research data that lead to incorrect conclusions.

Biological plausibility-- A causal association (or relationship between two factors) is consistent with existing medical knowledge.

A soft tissue inside the bone that produces blood cells, including the ones that fight infection.^[23]

Bone marrow-- Soft tissue located within bones that produce all blood cells, including the ones that fight infection.

Booster shots are additional doses of a vaccine needed periodically to "boost" the immune system.

For example, the tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine require booster shots which are recommended for adults every ten years.^[24]

Booster shots-- Additional doses of a vaccine needed periodically to "boost" the immune system. For example, the tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine which is recommended for adults every ten years.

Brachial neuritis is inflammation of nerves in the arm causing muscle weakness and pain.^[25]

Brachial neuritis-- Inflammation of nerves in the arm causing muscle weakness and pain.

Breakthrough infection is development of a disease despite a person's having responded to a vaccine.

In other words, a breakthrough infection occurs because the vaccine failed to protect the person who had received the vaccine.^[26]

Breakthrough infection-- Development of a disease despite a person's having responded to a vaccine.

Causal association is the presence or absence of a variable (e.g. smoking) 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.^[27]

Causal association-- The presence or absence of a variable (e.g. smoking) 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.

Chronic health condition is a health related state that lasts for a long period of time (e.g. cancer, asthma). ^[28]

Chronic health condition-- A health related state that lasts for a long period of time (e.g. cancer, asthma).

Communicable is a disease that can be transmitted from one person or animal to another.^[29]

Communicable-- That which can be transmitted from one person or animal to another.

Crohn's disease is 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 Chron's disease is not yet known, but genetic, dietary and infectious factors may play a part.^[30]

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 Chron's disease is not yet known, but genetic, dietary and infectious factors may play a part.

A combination vaccine is two or more vaccines administered at once in order to reduce the number of shots given. For example, the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is a combination vaccine.^[31]

Combination vaccine-- Two or more vaccines administered at once in order to reduce the number of shots given. For example, the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.

Communicable-- Capable of spreading disease. Also known as infectious.

Community immunity is having a large percentage of the population vaccinated in order to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. Even individuals not vaccinated (such as newborns and those with chronic illnesses) are offered some protection because the disease has little opportunity to spread within the community. This is also known as herd immunity. ^[32]

Community immunity-- Having a large percentage of the population vaccinated in order to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. Even individuals not vaccinated (such as newborns and those with chronic illnesses) are offered some protection because the disease has little opportunity to spread within the community. Also known as herd immunity.

A conjugate vaccine is the joining together of two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) to increase a vaccine's effectiveness. ^[33]

Conjugate vaccine-- The joining together of two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) to increase a vaccine's effectiveness.

Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the mucous membranes surrounding the eye causing 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. ^[34]

Conjunctivitis-- Inflammation of the mucous membranes surrounding the eye causing 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.

A contraindication is a condition in a recipient which is likely to result in an adverse effect if a medical treatment were given. ^[35]

Contraindication-- A condition in a recipient which is likely to result in a life-threatening problem if a vaccine were given.

Convulsion-- See Seizure.

Crib or Cot Death-- See Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Deltoid-- A muscle in the upper arm where shots are usually given.

Demyelinating disorders is a medical condition where 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-Barre Syndrome (GBS). ^[36]

Demyelinating disorders-- A medical condition where 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-Barre Syndrome (GBS).

Diabetes-- A chronic health condition where the body is unable to produce insulin and properly breakdown sugar (glucose) in the blood. Symptoms include hunger, thirst, excessive urination, dehydration and weight loss. The treatment of diabetes requires daily insulin injections, proper nutrition and regular exercise. Complications can include heart disease, stroke, neuropathy, poor circulation leading to loss of limbs, hearing impairment, vision problems and death.

Diphtheria is a bacterial disease marked by the formation of a false membrane, especially in the throat, which can be fatal. ^[37]

Diphtheria-- A bacterial disease marked by the formation of a false membrane, especially in the throat, which can cause death.

Disease-- Sickness, illness or loss of health.

An efficacy rate is a measure used to describe how good a treatment is at preventing disease. ^[38]

Efficacy rate-- A measure used to describe how good a vaccine is at preventing disease.

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus.

Encephalitis can result in permanent brain damage or death. ^[39]

Encephalitis-- Inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. Encephalitis can result in permanent brain damage or death.

Encephalopathy is a general term describing brain dysfunction. Examples include encephalitis, meningitis, seizures and head trauma. ^[40]

Encephalopathy-- A general term describing brain dysfunction. Examples include encephalitis, meningitis, seizures and head trauma.

An epidemic is he occurrence of disease within a specific geographical area or population that is in excess of what is normally expected. ^[41]

Epidemic-- The occurrence of disease within a specific geographical area or population that is in excess of what is normally expected.

Endemic is the continual, low-level presence of disease in a community. ^[42]

Endemic-- The continual, low-level presence of disease in a community.

Erythema Multiforme is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes (including the mouth, throat and eyes). Erthema Multiforme has been reported following infection.

Symptoms persist anywhere from 2 days to 4 weeks and include skin lesions, blisters, itching, fatigue, joint pain and fever. ^[43]

Erythema Multiforme-- A medical condition characterized by inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes (including the mouth, throat and eyes). Erthema Multiforme has been reported following infection. Symptoms persist anywhere from 2 days to 4 weeks and include skin lesions, blisters, itching, fatigue, joint pain and fever.

Etiology means "the cause of," particularly in a medical context. ^[44]

Etiology-- The cause of.

Exposure in medicine means contact with infectious agents (bacteria or viruses) in a manner that promotes transmission and increases the likelihood of disease. ^[45]

Exposure-- Contact with infectious agents (bacteria or viruses) in a manner that promotes transmission and increases the likelihood of disease.

Febrile is a medical term meaning feverish, or relating to a fever. ^[46]

Febrile-- Relating to fever; feverish.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disease characterized by loss of reflexes and temporary paralysis, which is associated with adverse events following vaccination.

Symptoms include weakness, numbness, tingling and increased sensitivity that spreads over the body. Muscle paralysis starts in the feet and legs and moves upwards to the arms and hands. Sometimes paralysis can result in the respiratory muscles causing breathing difficulties. Symptoms usually appear over the course of one day and may continue to progress for 3 or 4 days up to 3 or 4 weeks.

Recovery begins within 2-4 weeks after the progression stops. While most patients recover, approximately 15%-20% experience persistent symptoms. GBS is fatal in 5% of cases. ^[47]

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)-- A rare neurological disease characterized by loss of reflexes and temporary paralysis. Symptoms include weakness, numbness, tingling and increased sensitivity that spreads over the body. Muscle paralysis starts in the feet and legs and moves upwards to the arms and hands. Sometimes paralysis can result in the respiratory muscles causing breathing difficulties. Symptoms usually appear over the course of one day and may continue to progress for 3 or 4 days up to 3 or 4 weeks. Recovery begins within 2-4 weeks after the progression stops. While most patients recover, approximately 15%-20% experience persistent symptoms. GBS is fatal in 5% of cases.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterial infection that may result in severe respiratory infections, including pneumonia, and other diseases such as meningitis. ^[48]

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)-- A bacterial infection that may result in severe respiratory infections, including pneumonia, and other diseases such as meningitis.

Hepatitis A is a minor viral disease, that usually does not persist in the blood. It is transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water. ^[49]

Hepatitis A-- A minor viral disease, that usually does not persist in the blood; transmitted through ingestion of contaminated food or water.

Hepatitis B is a viral disease transmitted by infected blood or blood products, or thorugh unprotected sex with someone who is infected. ^[50]

Hepatitis B-- A viral disease transmitted by infected blood or blood products, or thorugh unprotected sex with someone who is infected.

Hepatitis C is 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. ^[51]

Hepatitis C-- is 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 is 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. ^[52]

Hepatitis D-- is 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 is a virus (HEV) transmitted in much the same way as hepatitis A virus.

Hepatitis E, however, does not often occur in the United States. ^[53]

Hepatitis E-- is a virus (HEV) transmitted in much the same way as hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis E, however, does not often occur in the United States.

Herd immunity-- See Community immunity.

Herpes Zoster is 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 5 weeks.

Herpes Zoster is caused by the same virus that is responsible for chickenpox. Most people are exposed to this virus during childhood. After the primary infection (chickenpox), the virus becomes dormant, or inactivated. In some people the virus reactivates years, or even decades, later and causes herpes zoster.

Herbes Zoster is known as the shingles. ^[54]

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 5 weeks. Herpes Zoster is caused by the same virus that is responsible for chickenpox. Most people are exposed to this virus during childhood. After the primary infection (chickenpox), the virus becomes dormant, or inactivated. In some people the virus reactivates years, or even decades, later and causes herpes zoster. Also known as the shingles.

Hives is 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).

Hives is also known as uticaria. ^[55]

Hives-- 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 uticaria.

Hypersensitivity is a condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (e.g. food or drug).

Hypersensitivity is also known as an allergy. ^[56]

Hypersensitivity-- A condition in which the body has an exaggerated response to a substance (e.g. food or drug). Also known as an allergy.

Hyposensitivity is a condition in which the body has a weakened or delayed reaction to a substance. ^[57]

Hyposensitivity-- A condition in which the body has a weakened or delayed reaction to a substance.

Immune globulin is a protein found in the blood that fights infection. It is also known as gamma globulin. ^[58]

Immune globulin-- A protein found in the blood that fights infection. Also known as gamma globulin.

The immune system is the complex system in the body responsible for fighting disease. Its primary function is to identify foreign substances in the body (bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites) and develop a defense against them. This defense is known as the immune response.

It involves production of protein molecules called antibodies to eliminate foreign organisms that invade the body. ^[59]

Immune system-- The complex system in the body responsible for fighting disease. Its primary function is to identify foreign substances in the body (bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites) and develop a defense against them. This defense is known as the immune response. It involves production of protein molecules called antibodies to eliminate foreign organisms that invade the body.

Immunity is the body's protection against a disease. There are two types of immunity, passive and active.

Immunity is indicated by the presence of antibodies in the blood and can usually be determined with a laboratory test. ^[60]

Immunity-- Protection against a disease. There are two types of immunity, passive and active. Immunity is indicated by the presence of antibodies in the blood and can usually be determined with a laboratory test. See active and passive immunity.

Immunization is the process by which a person or animal becomes protected against a disease. This term is often used interchangeably with vaccination or inoculation. ^[61]

Immunization-- The process by which a person or animal becomes protected against a disease. This term is often used interchangeably with vaccination or inoculation.

Immunosuppression is when the immune system is unable to protect the body from disease. This condition can be caused by disease (like HIV infection or cancer) or by certain drugs (like those used in chemotherapy). Individuals whose immune systems are compromised should not receive live, attenuated vaccines. ^[62]

Immunosupression-- When the immune system is unable to protect the body from disease. This condition can be caused by disease (like HIV infection or cancer) or by certain drugs (like those used in chemotherapy). Individuals whose immune systems are compromised should not receive live, attenuated vaccines.

An inactive vaccine is a vaccine made from viruses and bacteria that have been killed through physical or chemical processes. These killed organisms cannot cause disease. ^[63]

Inactive vaccine-- A vaccine made from viruses and bacteria that have been killed through physical or chemical processes. These killed organisms cannot cause disease.

An inapparent infection is the presence of infection without symptoms. It is also known as subclinical or asymptomatic infection. ^[64]

Inapparent infection-- The presence of infection without symptoms. Also known as subclinical or asymptomatic infection.

Incidence in medical studies is the number of new disease cases reported in a population over a certain period of time. ^[65]

Incidence-- The number of new disease cases reported in a population over a certain period of time.

Incubation period is the time from contact with infectious agents (bacteria or viruses) to onset of disease. ^[66]

Incubation period-- The time from contact with infectious agents (bacteria or viruses) to onset of disease.

Infectious means capable of spreading disease. It is also known as communicable. ^[67]

Infectious-- Capable of spreading disease. Also known as communicable.

Infectious agents are organisms capable of spreading disease (e.g. bacteria or viruses). ^[68]

Infectious agents-- Organisms capable of spreading disease (e.g. bacteria or viruses).

Inflammation is redness, swelling, heat and pain resulting from injury to tissue (parts of the body underneath the skin). It is also known as swelling. ^[69]

Inflammation-- Redness, swelling, heat and pain resulting from injury to tissue (parts of the body underneath the skin). Also known as swelling.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is 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. ^[70]

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 contagious viral infection characterized by sudden onset of fever, severe aches and pains, and inflammation of the mucous membrane.

An investigational vaccine is a vaccine that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in clinical trials on humans.

Investigational vaccines are still in the testing and evaluation phase and are not licensed for use in the general public. ^[71]

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 is yellowing of the eyes. This condition is often a symptom of hepatitis infection. ^[72]

Jaundice-- Yellowing of the eyes. This condition is often a symptom of hepatitis infection.

Lesion-- An abnormal change in the structure of an organ, due to injury or disease.

A live vaccine is a 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. This is also known as an attenuated vaccine.

Live vaccines currently licensed in the United States include measles, mumps, rubella, polio, yellow fever and varicella.^[73]

Live vaccine-- A 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.

Lupus is 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. ^[74]

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.

Human beings may come into contact with infected ticks during outdoor activities (camping, hiking). 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. ... A vaccine was available from 1998 to 2002, but was then withdrawn from the market. ^[75]

Lyme disease-- A bacterial disease transmitted by infected ticks. Human beings may come into contact with infected ticks during outdoor activities (camping, hiking). 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. Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. A vaccine was available from 1998 to 2002.

Lymphocytes are small white blood cells that help the body defend itself against infection. These cells are produced in bone marrow and develop into plasma cells which produce antibodies. Lymphocytes are also known as B cells. ^[76]

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 which produce antibodies. Also known as B cells.

Macrophage is a large cell that helps the body defend itself against disease by surrounding and destroying foreign organisms (viruses or bacteria). ^[77]

Macrophage-- A large cell that helps the body defend itself against disease by surrounding and destroying foreign organisms (viruses or bacteria).

Macular is skin lesions, normally red-colored. ^[78]

Macular-- Skin lesions, normally red-colored.

Measles is a contagious viral disease marked by the eruption of red circular spots on the skin. ^[79]

Measles-- A contagious viral disease marked by the eruption of red circular spots on the skin.

A memory cell is a group of cells that help the body defend itself against disease by remembering prior exposure to specific organisms (e.g. viruses or bacteria). Therefore these cells are able to respond quickly when these organisms repeatedly threaten the body. ^[80]

Memory Cell-- A group of cells that help the body defend itself against disease by remembering prior exposure to specific organisms (e.g. viruses or bacteria). Therefore these cells are able to respond quickly when these organisms repeatedly threaten the body.

Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord that can result in permanent brain damage and death. ^[81]

Meningitis-- Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord that can result in permanent brain damage and death.

Meningoenephalitis (pronounced "men in joe en sef uh LIGHT iss") is an inflammation of the brain and meninges (membranes) that involves the encephalon (area inside the skull) and spinal column. ^[82]

Meningoenephalitis-- ["men in joe en sef uh LIGHT iss"] -- inflammation of the brain and meninges (membranes) that involves the encephalon (area inside the skull) and spinal column.

Microbes are tiny organisms (including viruses and bacteria) that can only be seen with a microscope. ^[83]

Microbes-- Tiny organisms (including viruses and bacteria) that can only be seen with a microscope.

Mucosal membranes are the soft, wet tissue that lines body openings specifically the mouth, nose, rectum and vagina. ^[84]

Mucosal membranes-- The soft, wet tissue that lines body openings specifically the mouth, nose, rectum and vagina.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is 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 3 times more common in women than men, with diagnosis usually made as young adults.

The Hepatitis B vaccine significantly increases the risk of contracting MS.

See also demyelinating disorders. ^[85]

Multiple Sclerosis-- Multiple sclerosis is 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 3 times more common in women than men, with diagnosis usually made as young adults. Also see demyelinating disorders.

Mumps are acute contagious viral illness marked by swelling, especially of the parotid glands. ^[86]

Mumps-- Acute contagious viral illness marked by swelling, especially of the parotid glands.

Neuritis is inflammation of the nerves. ^[87]

Neuritis-- Inflammation of the nerves.

Neuropathy is 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. ^[88]

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.

Optic neuritis is a medical condition where vision deteriorates rapidly over hours or days. One or both eyes may be affected.

This condition results for the demyelination of optic nerves. In most cases, the cause of optic neuritis is unknown. Patients may regain their vision or be left with permanent impairment.

See also demyelinating disorders. ^[89]

Optic neuritis-- A medical condition where vision deteriorates rapidly over hours or days. One or both eyes may be affected. This condition results for the demyelination of optic nerves. 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.

Orchitis is 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. ^[90]

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.

Otitis Media is a viral or bacterial infection that leads to inflammation of the middle ear. This condition usually occurs along with an upper respiratory infection.

Symptoms include earache, high fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, hearing loss, facial paralysis and meningitis may result. ^[91]

Otitis Media-- A viral or bacterial infection that leads to inflammation of the middle ear. This condition usually occurs along with an upper respiratory infection. Symptoms include earache, high fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, hearing loss, facial paralysis and meningitis may result.

An outbreak in medical terminology means a sudden appearance of a disease in a specific geographic area (e.g. neighborhood or community) or population (e.g. adolescents). ^[92]

Outbreak-- Sudden appearance of a disease in a specific geographic area (e.g. neighborhood or community) or population (e.g. adolescents).

Pandemic is an epidemic occurring over a very large area. ^[93]

Pandemic-- An epidemic occurring over a very large area.

Papular means marked by small red-colored elevation of the skin. ^[94]

Papular-- Marked by small red-colored elevation of the skin.

Passive immunity is protection against disease through antibodies produced by another human being or animal. Passive immunity is effective, but protection is generally limited and diminishes over time (usually a few weeks or months).

For example, maternal antibodies are passed to the infant prior to birth. These antibodies temporarily protect the baby for the first 4-6 months of life. ^[95]

Passive immunity-- Protection against disease through antibodies produced by another human being or animal. Passive immunity is effective, but protection is generally limited and diminishes over time (usually a few weeks or months). For example, maternal antibodies are passed to the infant prior to birth. These antibodies temporarily protect the baby for the first 4-6 months of life.

Pathogens are organisms (e.g. bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi) that cause disease in human beings. ^[96]

Pathogens-- Organisms (e.g. bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi) that cause disease in human beings.

Pertussis, also known as "whooping cough," is bacterial infectious disease marked by a convulsive spasmodic cough, sometimes followed by a crowing intake of breath. ^[97]

Pertussis-- (whooping cough) Bacterial infectious disease marked by a convulsive spasmodic cough, sometimes followed by a crowing intake of breath.

Petechiae (pronounced "pe TEEK ee ay") is a tiny reddish or purplish spot on the skin or mucous membrane, commonly part of infectious diseases such as typhoid fever. ^[98]

Petechiae-- ["pe TEEK ee ay"] -- a tiny reddish or purplish spot on the skin or mucous membrane, commonly part of infectious diseases such as typhoid fever.

A placebo is a substance or treatment that has no effect on human beings, but is used as a decoy in studies for the "control" part of the sample. In other words, part of the study group will receive a placebo, and the remainder the group will receive the new medication being studied, so that the differences in outcome may be compared. ^[99]

Placebo-- A substance or treatment that has no effect on human beings.

Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs characterized by fever, chills, muscle stiffness, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing. ^[100]

Pneumonia-- Inflammation of the lungs characterized by fever, chills, muscle stiffness, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, rapid heart rate and difficulty breathing.

Poliomyelitis-- (polio) An acute infectious viral disease characterized by fever, paralysis, and atrophy of skeletal muscles.

Polysaccharide vaccines 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. ^[101]

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.

Potency is a measure of strength. ^[102]

Potency-- A measure of strength.

Precaution-- A condition in a recipient which may result in a life-threatening problem if the vaccine is given, or a condition which could compromise the ability of the vaccine to produce immunity.

Prevalence in medicine is the number of disease cases (new and existing) within a population over a given time period. ^[103]

Prevalence-- The number of disease cases (new and existing) within a population over a given time period.

Prodromal is an early symptom indicating the onset of an attack or a disease. ^[104]

Prodromal-- An early symptom indicating the onset of an attack or a disease.

A quarantine is 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. ^[105]

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.

Recombinant means 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. ^[106]

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.

Reye Syndrome is 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. ^[107]

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.

Residual Seizure Disorder (RSD)-- See seizures.

Risk-- The likelihood that an individual will experience a certain event.

Rotavirus is a group of viruses that cause diarrhea in children. ^[108]

Rotavirus-- A group of viruses that cause diarrhea in children.

Rubella, or German measles, is a viral infection that is milder than normal measles but as damaging to the unborn child when it occurs early in pregnancy. ^[109]

Rubella-- (German measles) Viral infection that is milder than normal measles but as damaging to the fetus when it occurs early in pregnancy.

Rubeola-- See Measles.

Seroconversion is the development of antibodies in the blood of an individual who previously did not have detectable antibodies. ^[110]

Seroconversion-- Development of antibodies in the blood of an individual who previously did not have detectable antibodies.

Serology is the measurement of antibodies, and other immunological properties, in the blood serum. ^[111]

Serology-- Measurement of antibodies, and other immunological properties, in the blood serum.

Serosurvey is a study measuring a person's risk of developing a particular disease. ^[112]

Serosurvey-- Study measuring a person's risk of developing a particular disease.

Seizure is the sudden onset of a jerking and staring spell usually caused by fever. This is also known as convulsions. ^[113]

Seizure-- The sudden onset of a jerking and staring spell usually caused by fever. Also known as convulsions.

Shingles-- See herpes zoster.

A side Effect is an undesirable reaction resulting from immunization or any medical treatment. ^[114]

Side Effect-- Undesirable reaction resulting from immunization.

Smallpox is an acute, highly infectious, often fatal disease caused by a poxvirus and characterized by high fever and aches with subsequent widespread eruption of pimples that blister, produce pus, and form pockmarks. It is also called variola. ^[115]

Smallpox-- An acute, highly infectious, often fatal disease caused by a poxvirus and characterized by high fever and aches with subsequent widespread eruption of pimples that blister, produce pus, and form pockmarks. Also called variola.

Many diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, have multiple strains. ^[116]

Strain-- A specific version of an organism. Many diseases, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, have multiple strains.

Subclinical infection is the presence of infection without symptoms. This is also known as inapparent or asymptomatic infection. ^[117]

Subclinical infection-- The presence of infection without symptoms. Also known as inapparent or asymptomatic infection.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)-- The sudden and unexpected death of a healthy infant under 1 year of age. A diagnosis of SIDS is made when an autopsy cannot determine another cause of death. The cause of SIDS is unknown. Also known as "crib" or "cot" death. ^[118]

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)-- The sudden and unexpected death of a healthy infant under 1 year of age. A diagnosis of SIDS is made when an autopsy cannot determine another cause of death. The cause of SIDS is unknown. Also known as "crib" or "cot" death.

Susceptible, in medical terminology, means unprotected against disease. ^[119]

Susceptible-- Unprotected against disease.

Temporal association is when two or more events that occur around the same time but are unrelated, chance occurrences. This term is used to deny, often falsely, a causation of an adverse event by a treatment. ^[120]

Temporal association-- Two or more events that occur around the same time but are unrelated, chance occurrences.

Teratogenic means relating to or causing developmental malformations.

Embryonic stem cells are known to cause teratogenic compounds. ^[121]

Teratogenic-- Of, relating to, or causing developmental malformations.

Tetanus is a toxin-producing bacterial disease marked by painful muscle spasms. ^[122]

Tetanus-- Toxin-producing bacterial disease marked by painful muscle spasms.

Thimerosal is a mercury-containing preservative that has been used in some vaccines and other products since the 1930's. Mercury has long been known to be highly toxic.

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, the government claims that all routinely recommended childhood vaccines manufactured for the U.S. market contain either no thimerosal or only trace amounts. But physicians continued to use vaccines containing thimerosal long after the recommendation of its elimination, in order to clear the old inventory of pharmaceutical companies. ^[123]

Thimerosal-- Thimerosal is a mercury-containing preservative that has been used in some vaccines and other products since the 1930's. There is no evidence that the low concentrations of thimerosal in vaccines have caused any harm other than minor reactions like 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.

Titer-- The detection of antibodies in blood through a laboratory test.

Transverse Myelitis is the sudden onset of spinal cord disease. Symptoms include general back pain followed by weakness in the feet and legs that moves upward.

There is no cure and many patients are left with permanent disabilities or paralysis. Transverse Myelitis is a demyelinating disorder that may be associated with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

^[124]

Transverse Myelitis-- The sudden onset of spinal cord disease. Symptoms include general back pain followed by weakness in the feet and legs that moves upward. There is no cure and many patients are left with permanent disabilities or paralysis. Transverse Myelitis is a demyelinating disorder that may be associated with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Also see demyelinating disorders.

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.

Vaccination is the injection of a killed or weakened infectious organism in order to prevent the disease. ^[125]

Vaccination-- Injection of a killed or weakened infectious organism in order to prevent the disease.

Vaccine-- A product that produces immunity therefore protecting the body from the disease. Vaccines are administered through needle injections, by mouth and by aerosol.

Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) is 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. ^[126]

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.

Vaccine Safety Datalink Project (VSD) is a project claiming to seek to increase knowledge about vaccine adverse events.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have formed partnerships with eight large health Management Organizations (HMOs) to continually evaluate vaccine safety. The project contains data on more than 6 million people. Medical records are monitored for potential adverse events following immunization.

The VSD project is supposed to allow for planned vaccine safety studies as well as timely investigations of hypothesis. ^[127]

Vaccine Safety Datalink Project (VSD)-- In order to increase knowledge about vaccine adverse events, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have formed partnerships with eight large health Management Organizations (HMOs) to continually evaluate vaccine safety. The project contains data on more than 6 million people. Medical records are monitored for potential adverse events following immunization. The VSD project allows for planned vaccine safety studies as well as timely investigations of hypothesis.

Varicella, also known as chickenpox, is an acute contagious disease characterized by papular and vesicular lesions. ^[128]

Varicella-- (Chickenpox) -- An acute contagious disease characterized by papular and vesicular lesions.

Variola--See smallpox.

Vesicular is a medical condition characterized by small elevations of the skin containing fluid (blisters). ^[129]

Vesicular-- Characterized by small elevations of the skin containing fluid (blisters).

Viremia is the presence of a virus in the blood. ^[130]

Viremia-- The presence of a virus in the blood.

Virulence is the relative capacity of a pathogen to overcome body defenses. ^[131]

Virulence-- The relative capacity of a pathogen to overcome body defenses.

Viruses are not affected by antibiotics, the drugs used to kill bacteria. ^[132]

Virus-- A tiny organism that multiplies within cells and causes disease such as chickenpox, measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis and hepatitis. Viruses are not affected by antibiotics, the drugs used to kill bacteria.

Waning immunity is the loss of protective antibodies over time.

Vaccines often have waning immunity. ^[133]

Waning Immunity-- The loss of protective antibodies over time.

Whooping Cough-- See Pertussis.