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• Immunization Terms

Immunization Related Terms

- C -

• Causal Association

The presence or absence of a variable (e.g. smoking) is responsible for an increase or decrease in another variable (e.g. cancer). A change in exposure leads to a change in the outcome of interest.



• Chronic Health Condition

A health related state that lasts for a long period of time (e.g. cancer, asthma).



• Combination Vaccine

Two or more vaccines administered at once in order to reduce the number of shots given. For example, the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.



• Communicable

Capable of spreading disease. Also known as infectious.



• Community Immunity

Having a large percentage of the population vaccinated in order to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. Even individuals not vaccinated (such as newborns and those with chronic illnesses) are offered some protection because the disease has little opportunity to spread within the community. Also known as herd immunity.



• Conjugate Vaccine

The joining together of two compounds (usually a protein and polysaccharide) to increase a vaccine's effectiveness.



• Conjunctivitis

Inflammation of the mucous membranes surrounding the eye causing the area to become red and irritated. The membranes may be irritated because of exposure to heat, cold or chemicals. This condition is also caused by viruses, bacteria or allergies.



• Contraindication

A condition in a recipient which is likely to result in a life-threatening problem if a vaccine were given.



• Convulsion

See Seizure.



• Crib Or Cot Death

See Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).



• Crohn's Disease

A chronic medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bowel. Symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite and weight loss. The cause of Chron's disease is not yet known, but genetic, dietary and infectious factors may play a part.