Epidemiology: Tracking the Source of an Emerging Disease (Developed by SEPUP)
kit #913S
This fictitious emerging disease scenario (based on an actual outbreak in the 1960s) allows students to collect and use evidence about disease and disease transmission. After reading some background information, students formulate an initial hypothesis then gather data by playing a board game. As they gather additional information about “Maracondo Fever”, students can modify their hypothesis in light of new evidence. Having determined the method of transmission, students then design public health measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Most infectious diseases are caused by microbes.
- Scientists formulate and test their explanations of nature using observations and experiments.
- Analyzing trends in how a disease spreads can suggest ways of preventing its further spread.
- Students understand the risks associated with biological hazards such as disease transmission.
- People make important personal and societal decisions based on their perceptions of benefits and risks.
Content List in Epidemiology: Tracking the Source of an Emerging Disease (Developed by SEPUP) is as follows:
Quantity | Description |
---|---|
8 | Maracondo Fever game board |
8 | Set of Hut, House, Lab, and Weird Events cards |
8 | Number cube |
8 | Set of four multicolored game pieces |
- Number of students per class
- 32 maximum (working in 8 groups of 4)
- Number of classes
- unlimited (no consumable materials)

To complete this activity requires one to two ~50-minute class periods.