A Simulation of Communicable Disease and Herd Immunity for the Microbiology Classroom or Laboratory

Abstract

Modern medicine has reduced the incidence of communicable disease, but humanity continues to suffer from a wide variety of ailments caused by infectious microorganisms. Modelling this transmission allows for a greater awareness of the various mechanisms through which disease can spread. This procedure allows students to participate in a completely safe, real-time exercise that demonstrates the ease at which a susceptible population can become infected. In addition, this exercise allows for a demonstration of the efficacy of herd immunity. An easily-prepared set of cards takes the place of actual microorganisms.