Infection Connection

Spreading knowledge about the spread of disease

The Bubonic Plague wiped out a third of Europe’s population during less than a decade. The "Spanish Flu" Pandemic killed 40 million people in a single year. Could it happen again? It is happening – on a smaller scale, and thankfully with less lethal results – every single day. From SARS to AIDS to the basic 24-hour virus that can strike us all, the spread of infectious diseases is one of the greatest challenges facing the world today.

Through Infection Connection, you’ll understand better how the choices we make on a daily basis – as individuals and a society – contribute to the rise and fall of infectious diseases. You’ll explore interactions between humans and microbes, learn about emerging diseases and see how science develops tools and technologies to prevent and treat infections. You can even conduct microbiology and epidemiology experiments in our very own laboratory. Infection Connection is an experience you'll truly take home with you.

Exhibition Themes

► Connections
We are all part of one integrated global community. A dramatic photo-mosaic will introduce you to the concept of how infectious diseases burden global health, driving home the interconnected nature of humans all over the world. Get wowed by stunning images of microbes as you prepare to enter the microscopic realm.

Humans & Microbes
Unlock microbe mysteries and explore the inner workings of the immune system.

Spreading Diseases
Drastic changes in public health policy are needed to rid many developing countries of diseases that no longer threaten industrialized nations. Yet even with our advanced medicine, diseases still manage to emerge in our own backyards. Explore how humans respond to and guard against such threats.

► Tools & Technology
Scientists have invented an arsenal of defenses to fight infectious diseases. A working wet lab invites you to find out how. You’ll conduct experiments to identify microbes as you learn how to protect yourself in everyday life. Outside the lab, a timeline of discovery takes you through a technological history of the fight against infectious disease. Nearby, you can see how Hollywood takes liberties when it comes to microbes in the movies.

Actions & Outcomes
Board the IC Express, a subway car theater, and journey around the world to discover how different cultures handle infectious diseases. A nearby video newsstand will bring you news stories about microbes and germs. On the station walls, public health posters will help spread the word about protection against infection.

Decisions
Controlling illness can often be a matter of choice. Take the challenge and see how you compare. What would you do to affect the spread of infectious diseases?

Online Extra

Tips on staying healthy during cold and flu season.

Infection Connection is made possible by the generosity of The Pfizer Foundation, LYSOL and BD.