This is part 4 of 8 for the germ guessing game.  To help build the value of the lesson, it is recommended to include a Glo Germ Kit demonstration.  The Glo Germ lesson uses fluorescent powder or gel (which ever you choose) to simulate how germs spread and how they can be reduced.

Guess the germ (options and answer below)

About Me: 

An acute form of me may be caused by a variety of organisms including viruses, bacteria, fungi, mycoplasma, and parasites. My bacterial strain is one of the most potentially dangerous infections in children.

What I do: 

I am passed between people through coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, saliva, and the touching of infected secretions. For example, I love being spread on shared utensils, drinking cups, water bottles, and while people are kissing. One thing I can cause is an acute inflammation of the meninges that may involve parts of the brain. The most common symptoms of me include a headache and hyperesthesia. Nausea, vomiting, leg pain, a rash of fine red freckles, purple splotches, and/or photophobia are also good signs that I am in you. My bacterial strain may start with upper respiratory symptoms, and then lethargy and irritability will likely follow. Effects on the knees, hips and (stiff) neck are also seen.

How to Stop Me: 

The best way to stop me is through early prevention. Maintain a clean environment and practice good hygiene. It is important to alert all those that are in contact with the infected person that I am present. Seek medical counsel and treatment. Anyone that is deemed to be in contact (determined by the medical authority) with my infected victim 2 weeks prior to symptoms should most likely take antibiotics. Monitor the infected victims for 2-3 weeks and report all other cases. Everyone needs to get involved to stop me!

Choose the virus, illness, or bug from the list that best fits the description below.

• -Meningitis
• -Tuberculosis
• -Head Lice
• -Hepatitis A
• -Impetigo
• -Varicella (Chicken Pox)
• -Influenza
• -Tinea Capitis (Ringworm of the Scalp) 

Answer: Meningitis