épidémie

epidemic

noun eh-pee-deh-MEE Rare

Usage Note

Épidémie refers to a widespread outbreak of disease within a region, distinct from pandémie (worldwide spread) and endémie (endemic, always present). The adjective épidémique describes epidemic-level spread. Health authorities use foyer épidémique for a disease cluster.

Examples

"Une épidémie de grippe touche la région."

Natural Translation

A flu epidemic is affecting the region.

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