The aim of this learning exercise was to harness current interest in zombies in order to educate audiences about
the epidemiology of infectious disease. Participants in the activity were provided with an outbreak scenario,
which they then used as the basis of play-based activities. By considering the mode and speed of transmission,
size of outbreak and prevention/control strategy, participant groups were able to define parameters of their
outbreak scenario. These were then input to SimZombie, a computer simulation program developed by the
authors, which visually demonstrated the spread of infection through a population. The resulting animations
were then used as the basis of in-depth discussion which, in turn, enabled the consideration of principles of
disease transmission and control strategies. The activity provided an opportunity to engage a range of audiences
through a variety of different delivery mechanisms, including role play, workshops and informal drop-in.
Learning was evidenced by participation and feedback

• Monsters, microbiology and mathematics: the epidemiology of a zombie apocalypse

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