epidemic
The Spanish word 'epidemia' translates to 'epidemic' in English. An epidemic is the rapid spread of infectious disease to a large number of people, usually in a population or region, within a short period. The term can also be applied to an increase in other situations or issues in a similar manner, such as an epidemic of violence or drug usage. In the context of health, epidemics are usually managed by medical professionals and public health officials.
The influenza epidemic has caused many deaths.
In this sentence, 'epidemia' is used as a noun to refer to an outbreak or widespread occurrence of a disease, in this case, influenza. It's to mention the serious health issue caused by this illness on a large scale.
During the epidemic, it is important to wash your hands frequently.
Here, 'epidemia' is used in the context of preventative health measures. This sentence is recommending hand washing as an important precaution during a time of widespread disease.
The government responded slowly to the epidemic.
In this case, 'epidemia' causes a critique of a government's response speed. The sentence implies that the government's response to a health crisis, referred to as an 'epidemia', was not as quick or effective as it could have been.