HealthAugust 4, 2026

anaphylaxis

AN-uh-fuh-LAK-sis

Definition

A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur rapidly after exposure to an allergen.

Etymology

Derived from Greek, combining 'ana-' meaning 'against' or 'backward' and 'phylaxis' meaning 'protection' or 'guarding,' essentially signifying the opposite of a protective immune response.

In the news

The article uses the term to highlight the serious medical danger posed to people with egg allergies who might unknowingly consume the contaminated burritos.

Costco Frozen Food Under USDA Public Health Alert for Hidden Allergen

Read the full article ↗

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