Refers to a widespread infectious disease in a community. Often used in historical or literary contexts, but also in modern discussions of outbreaks. Compare with 流行病 (りゅうこうびょう), which is the more technical term.
See also: 流行病 (りゅうこうびょう)
In medieval Europe, epidemics raged many times.
この村では流行り病で多くの人が亡くなった。
Many people in this village died from the epidemic.