An epidemic is the occurrence in a community or region of cases of illness clearly in excess of expectancy. True or False?

The statement is accurate. An epidemic is indeed defined as the occurrence of cases of illness within a community or region that significantly exceeds what is normally expected. This excess can occur over a specific timeframe and often indicates a rapid increase in the incidence of a particular disease. Epidemiologists assess the expected frequency of a disease based on historical data, and when current cases surpass this benchmark, it signifies an epidemic. This understanding is crucial for public health responses, as it helps determine when interventions are necessary to prevent further spread of the illness.