prophylaxis

[proh-fuh-lak-sis, prof-uh-]

noun

1. Medicine/Medical.

   1. the preventing of disease.

   2. the prevention of a specific disease, as by studying the biological behavior, transmission, etc., of its causative agent and applying a series of measures against it.

2. prophylactic treatment, as the cleaning of the teeth by a dentist or dental hygienist.

prophylaxis

/ ˌprɒfɪˈlæksɪs /

noun

1. the prevention of disease or control of its possible spread

Word History and Origins

Origin of prophylaxis¹

1835–45; < New Latin < Greek pro- pro- ² + phýlaxis a watching, guarding, equivalent to phylak- (base of phylássein to guard) + -sis -sis

Example Sentences

The CDC supports providing such post-exposure prophylaxis to all asymptomatic household contacts within 21 days of when a whooping cough patient starts coughing.

From Los Angeles Times

Officials call the treatment doxy PEP, short for doxycycline postexposure prophylaxis.

From Seattle Times

The patient was treated with an antiviral right away, and close contacts were given post-exposure prophylaxis.

From Salon

"This could be a potential broad spectrum antiviral treatment and prophylaxis."

From Salon

For now, people taking pre- or post-exposure prophylaxis against HIV will be deferred at least three months, which has drawn concerns from advocates who note the prevention drugs are safe and effective.

From Seattle Times