Difference Between Epidemic and Pandemic
The difference between epidemic and pandemic is listed below in tabular form;
|
Characteristics |
Epidemic |
Pandemic |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition |
The spread of an infection in a large number of the population rapidly and in a short duration. |
The global outbreak of a new disease or an epidemic. |
|
Nature of Disease |
Sudden and unexpected spread of the infection. |
Dangerous and fast spreading. May cause a huge number of deaths. |
|
Scope of Spread |
Usually localized to a specific region, community, or population. |
Worldwide or global spread of a disease. |
|
Geographical Extent |
Limited to a specific geographic area like city, state, or country. |
Extends beyond national borders. |
|
Disease Severity |
Varied severity (may be deadly or maybe not) |
Often have high severity with a high mortality rate. |
|
Duration |
Typically lasts for a few weeks to months. |
May last for a longer period i.e. for multiple years. |
|
Contributing Factors |
Contributing factors include; the emergence of a new pathogen, pathogenic mutation, population immunity, environmental conditions, etc. |
Contributing factors are the same as an epidemic. |
|
Examples |
COVID-19, ebola, cholera, malaria, etc. |
COVID-19, Spanish flu, HIV-AIDS, etc. |
Difference Between Epidemic And Pandemic
Difference between epidemic and pandemic helps us to understand various aspects of the two terms used for epidemiology. The difference between epidemic and pandemic describes the spread of diseases, particularly infectious diseases, on a global scale. While both terms refer to the occurrence and spread of diseases, they differ in several key ways that are listed in the difference between epidemic and pandemic.
Table of Content
- Difference Between Epidemic and Pandemic
- What is an Epidemic?
- What is a Pandemic?
- FAQs on Epidemic And Pandemic