Fungi - A taxonomic kingdom of spore-forming organisms distinct from plants, animals, and bacteria that includes microorganisms such as yeast and molds, as well as mushrooms.⏎
Cytokine - A type of protein secreted by cells in the immune system that carries signals that facilitate cell-to-cell communication and help regulate the way the immune system responds to inflammation and infection.⏎
Endemic - The baseline level of disease usually present in a community.⏎
El Niño-Southern Oscillation Cycle (ENSO) - A combination of two events, El Niño and La Niña, which are periodic disruptions in the ocean’s temperatures. As a result, the temperatures are warmer or cooler than usual, which has an impact on weather patterns worldwide. ⏎
Contagion - A general term for any disease-causing infectious agent spread by direct or indirect contact.⏎