What term describes infections or diseases that can be transferred between individuals?

The term that describes infections or diseases that can be transferred between individuals is "contagious" or "communicable." This term refers to diseases that can spread from one person to another through various means, such as direct contact, airborne transmission, or body fluids. Understanding this term is crucial in settings like beauty schools, where close physical contact between individuals is common.

Many infectious diseases are categorized specifically as contagious or communicable, emphasizing their capacity for transmission. While "infectious" is a broader term that encompasses any disease caused by pathogens, it doesn’t necessarily imply transmissibility between individuals. "Chronic" refers to long-lasting conditions that may not be acute but don’t specifically address transmission. "Autoimmune" describes conditions where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, which is unrelated to the transmission of infections between individuals. This understanding helps in maintaining hygiene and preventing the spread of illnesses in environments where close contact occurs.