Topic One (1.1): What human conditions are infectious?

Objectives for this topic

to identify diseases in humans which are infectious.

Introduction

In this topic, you will practise your research skills as you find out about infectious diseases in humans and how they are transmitted. You will also develop your evaluation skills as you consider the reliability of your sources and cross-check information.

Working through your coursebook

Some human diseases are infectious. Watch the video and answer the following questions.

WATCH - What is an infectious disease? Infection and modes of transmission (YouTube) Links to an external site.

1. What does infectious mean?
2. Write down three direct modes of transmission.
3. Write down three indirect modes of transmission.
4. Write down three examples of infectious diseases.
5. Suggest why you think it is important that we understand the modes of transmission for infectious diseases.

Chicken pox is an example of a highly contagious infectious disease caused by a virus. It causes red or pink raised itchy spots on the body and a general feeling of being unwell, such as a headache or tiredness.

1. Find out what the difference is between contagious and infectious.
2. Research ten other human conditions that are infectious.

Use the following website to help you complete the worksheet:

READ - Diseases and conditions (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) Links to an external site.

COMPLETE - Worksheet 1.1. Infectious Diseases Download COMPLETE - Worksheet 1.1. Infectious Diseases

c. Do you think the source of your research is reliable? Why?

Find out about Mary Mallon, who was born on the 23^rd of September 1869.
1. What is her more commonly known name? What is it claimed she is responsible for?
2. Make a list of your sources and evaluate them.

The support sheet and video in the support section recaps how to do this.