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infection A contagious disease or illness caused by the presence and spread of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. ■ After catching a cold from her sick roommate, Sarah was so paranoid about germs that she started washing her hands with soap for 30 seconds every time she touched anything. Even the dog had to be quarantined in their own room!
Carbuncle A large, lumpy, and often painful inflammation of the skin caused by a bacterial infection. ■ "I accidentally got a carbuncle on my neck when I forgot to wash my hands after eating at that sketchy food truck."
festering a state of being covered in pus and maggots, typically as a result of an infection ■ "I accidentally left my sandwich on the kitchen counter and now it's festering with mold. Ew."
herpes A viral infection that causes painful sores on the skin or in the mouth, and can be transmitted through direct contact with an infected person. It is also known as shingles when it affects the elderly.
pneumonia An infection that causes the air sacs in your lungs to become inflamed and filled with fluid. It can be very serious, but it's also quite amusing if you imagine a pufferfish trying to breathe through its nose.
pox A skin condition caused by a viral infection, characterized by small red spots and itchy rashes. ■ "I accidentally touched the pox on my hand, and now I'm covered in it!
Sores Small, painful, itchy spots on the skin caused by bacterial or fungal infection. ■ "I forgot to put sunscreen on my face and now I have a sore all over my forehead!"
administered To give someone a dose of medicine or punishment. ■ The doctor administered the patient a shot of penicillin to fight off the infection., When the boss found out about the employee's late work, he administered a stern warning and deducted some pay from their salary.
Chlamydia A bacterial infection that causes the swelling and itching of genitalia, particularly in women. It is easily transmitted through sexual contact. ■ "I never realized how contagious chlamydia was until I went on a date with my friend's ex-girlfriend and now we're both dealing with the aftermath."
colds A cold is a viral infection of your upper respiratory tract that causes symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, and cough. It can also make you feel tired and weak. ■ I'm so glad I caught my cold from my coworker, it means I get to spend the next few weeks working from home and binge-watching movies!
condom A thin rubber or latex covering that is worn over the genitalia during sexual intercourse to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections and to add a little extra protection from unwanted pregnancy. ■ "John may have forgotten to pack his condoms, but he quickly remembered why they're important when his girlfriend started yelling about her yeast infection."
cuticle A thin layer of cells on the surface of the skin that protects it from infection and other harmful substances. ■ After forgetting to moisturize his hands, John's cuticle was so dry that he could barely touch anything without causing pain. He learned his lesson and now carries hand lotion with him wherever he goes.
Pus A sticky, yellow substance that often appears on or under the skin. It is caused by an infection and can be uncomfortable and smelly. ■ "I accidentally cut myself on a rusty nail and now I have a pus-filled wound on my finger!"