What does it mean when a disease is described as communicable?

When a disease is described as communicable, it refers specifically to the fact that it can be contracted from infected individuals. This means that the disease is capable of being transmitted from one person to another, either directly or indirectly. Examples of communicable diseases include influenza, tuberculosis, and COVID-19, which spread through various means such as respiratory droplets, physical contact, or vectors like mosquitoes.

Understanding the communicability of a disease is crucial for implementing appropriate public health measures, such as vaccination, isolation of infected individuals, and promoting good hygiene practices to prevent the spread. Differentiating between communicable diseases and conditions caused by genetics or environmental factors emphasizes the importance of controlling and preventing the transmission of infectious diseases in communities.