How does a pandemic differ from an epidemic?

A pandemic is characterized by its extensive reach, as it involves a disease that spreads across multiple countries or continents, affecting a large number of individuals. This widespread nature is what distinguishes it from an epidemic, which generally pertains to a higher-than-expected increase in disease cases within a specific region or community.

In the context provided, the correct characterization of a pandemic being more widespread and crossing international borders highlights the global impact and scale of a pandemic. It emphasizes that a pandemic signifies not just an increase in cases, but a significant health threat that encompasses entire regions or the world.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for public health responses and effective management of disease outbreaks. A pandemic often requires coordinated international efforts to control and mitigate its effects, underscoring the need for a global perspective in public health.