prophylaxis Definition
- 1the prevention of disease or infection, especially by specific measures such as the use of a vaccine or the administration of antibiotics
- 2a preventive measure
Using prophylaxis: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prophylaxis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The best prophylaxis against malaria is to avoid mosquito bites.
Example
The patient was given prophylaxis to prevent infection after surgery.
Example
The government has implemented strict prophylaxis measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
prophylaxis Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for prophylaxis
Phrases with prophylaxis
a dental procedure that involves cleaning and polishing the teeth to prevent tooth decay and gum disease
Example
I need to schedule a dental prophylaxis appointment with my dentist.
post-exposure prophylaxis
a treatment given after exposure to a disease to prevent infection
Example
The healthcare worker was given post-exposure prophylaxis after being exposed to a patient with tuberculosis.
preventive measures taken before traveling to a foreign country to protect against diseases that are endemic to that region
Example
Before traveling to Africa, it is important to get travel prophylaxis to protect against malaria.
Origins of prophylaxis
from Greek 'prophylaxis', meaning 'guarding or preventing beforehand'
Summary: prophylaxis in Brief
Prophylaxis [proh-fuh-lak-sis] refers to measures taken to prevent disease or infection, such as vaccines or antibiotics. It can also refer to any preventive measure. Examples include dental prophylaxis, which involves cleaning and polishing teeth to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and travel prophylaxis, which protects against diseases endemic to certain regions.
