Outbreak

An outbreak refers to the sudden increase in cases of a disease within a specific community or area, surpassing what is normally expected. It occurs when a pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria, spreads rapidly among people, causing a noticeable rise in illness. Outbreaks can be localized, like in a single school or town, or more widespread, affecting larger regions. They often prompt public health responses to identify the source, control the spread, and prevent further cases. Understanding outbreaks helps health authorities manage and reduce the impact of infectious diseases on populations.