This list equips you with essential vocabulary used in news and official reports about COVID-19.

Mastering the Language of the Pandemic: Essential COVID-19 Vocabulary

a person who exaggerates danger

"Some news channels were criticized for being alarmist about the new COVID-19 variant."

showing no symptoms despite having an illness

"Many people with COVID-19 can be asymptomatic, which means they can still spread the virus without knowing."

not prepared or ready

"Some governments were accused of being behind the ball in their response to the pandemic."

in a small space with others

"It's important to practice social distancing, especially in close quarters like public transportation."

coronavirus disease 2019

"COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms like fever and cough, but it can also be very serious."

a sudden, major problem

"The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health crisis that has affected millions of people."

the health and well-being of the community

"Public health officials are working hard to control the spread of COVID-19."

a state of isolation due to the presence of an infectious disease

"People who test positive for COVID-19 must go into quarantine."

to stay away from others (usually at home)

" It's important to self-isolate if you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19."

using shocking rather than accurate stories to create interest

"Some news channels were criticized for sensationalism in their coverage of the pandemic."

staying a safe physical distance away from others in order to prevent the spread of an illness

"Social distancing is one of the most important ways to protect yourself and others from COVID-19."

to purchase extra goods for the future

"Some people stockpiled food and supplies during the early stages of the pandemic."

the movement of a product or service from a supplier to a customer

"The pandemic has disrupted supply chains for many goods and services."

the time after a virus is contracted before symptoms start to show

"The incubation period for COVID-19 can be up to 14 days."

to slow down the spread of the virus and reduce the impact on the health-care system

"Social distancing measures are important to help flatten the curve of COVID-19 cases."

to stay in one place for a while

"Many people hunkered down during the lockdown to prevent the spread of the virus."

an illness that spreads

"COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease that spreads through respiratory droplets."

a feeling that your job is safe

"The pandemic has made many people worry about their job security."

a widespread outbreak of a new disease

"COVID-19 is a global pandemic that has reached almost every country in the world."

a reaction caused by a sudden fear

"It's important to stay calm and avoid panicking during difficult times like a pandemic."

an agent that invades living cells and causes an infective illness

"COVID-19 is caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2."

more likely to experience harm than others

"Older adults and people with certain health conditions are more vulnerable to serious complications from COVID-19."