Infection and Response
Year 10 have recently been learning about diseases in the Biology unit of ‘Infection and Response’. One particular class have taken an interest in Coronavirus (COVID-19).
The students were taught about viruses and how they affect the body, how to prevent the spread of disease, how the body tries to destroy the disease and the stages of drug development. This gave them a real understanding into the reasons for quarantine and why a drug is not readily available to prevent further spread.
During their lessons, students have kept up with BBC news and there has been a regular discussion about the progress of the disease. They understand that the risk to individuals remains low, however the immune systems of vulnerable patients are weaker, therefore will be affected more.
They understand that because it’s a new illness, people do not know exactly how Coronavirus spreads from person to person. However, we do know that similar viruses, such as flu and measles, can be spread by droplet infection.
As a whole school measure, students are encouraged to take preventative measures, such as using hand sanitiser and coughing into the crook of their arms to help prevent the spread of infection within school. These are handy tips for everyone and is current NHS advice.
Mrs Cahill, Science Department
