Glossary

C

COVID-19

This disease is caused by the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which was first identified in December 2019. COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory tract, but can also cause damage to other organs. The disease can progress almost without symptoms or like a harmless cold. Especially in high-risk groups, COVID-19 can lead to severe courses with pneumonia and acute lung failure.

Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever

Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a viral infection with high mortality, which is mostly transmitted by ticks.

CRISPR-Cas9

CRISPR-Cas9 is a genome editing tool that allows cutting DNA at the sequence of choice. It offers new opportunities for the therapy of viral diseases.

Cytokines

Cytokines are small proteins released by cells that influence the interaction and communication between cells.

Cytomegalovirus

The cytomegalovirus, or CMV, is a herpes virus that is spread worldwide and remains in the body for life after infection.

D

Daptomycin

Daptomycin is an antibiotic used to treat certain severe infections caused by Gram-positive bacteria, including MRSA.

Decolonisation

Decolonisation is the elimination of certain pathogens in humans.

Dengue fever

Dengue fever is an infectious disease caused by dengue viruses and transmitted primarily by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes.

Dengue virus

Dengue viruses are mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, causing dengue fever.

Directly acting antivirals

Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are antiviral medications that specifically inhibit proteins of the hepatitis C virus (HCV), thereby preventing its replication.