Epicenter
Epicenter
Epicenter (pronounced: /ˈɛpɪˌsɛntər/) is a term commonly used in the field of Geology and Seismology to describe the point on the Earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake. However, in the context of Medicine, it is often used metaphorically to refer to the central point of an outbreak or disease occurrence.
Etymology
The term 'Epicenter' is derived from the Greek words 'epi' meaning 'upon' and 'kentron' meaning 'center'. It was first used in the context of earthquakes in the late 19th century.
Usage in Medicine
In Epidemiology, the term 'Epicenter' is used to describe the geographical area where a disease outbreak originates or is most concentrated. It is a crucial concept in the study and control of Infectious diseases and Pandemics.
Related Terms
- Focus (earthquake): The point beneath the Earth's surface where an earthquake originates.
- Ground Zero: The point on the Earth's surface closest to a detonation or an outbreak.
- Patient Zero: The first person infected in an epidemic or pandemic.
- Outbreak: The occurrence of cases of disease in a population or area where the disease is not usually present.
- Pandemic: An epidemic of an infectious disease that has spread across a large region, for instance multiple continents, or worldwide.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Epicenter
- Wikipedia's article - Epicenter
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