Caught COVID after Florida conference: Our mission with MedMicroMaps is to teach the world about SARS-CoV2 and other nasty microbes.
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After attending a recent conference in sunny Florida, our team left with not just fresh ideas and connections, but also COVID-19. Despite our efforts to stay safe—masking and following health protocols during our flights—we were unexpectedly hit by the virus.
This week marks the 5 year anniversary of when the world shut down; I will always remember Friday the 13th was the last day I went to work at the medical school in Grenada. Although I have tested negative literally 100+ times, I finally got the infamous positive double lines.
The Journey Begins: From Conference to Quarantine
Traveling to Florida was meant to open doors to networking and learning. We prepared thoroughly, following safety steps like wearing masks on the plane. I didn't wear one when we got stuck on the plane for 4 hours in a winter storm at the beginning of the month and both my daughter and I contracted a sickness from the women hacking up a lung 2 rows behind us. However, after returning home, symptoms began to emerge among our group and families.
How MedMicroMaps Helps Educate and Inform
Driven by our experience during strict virtual learning during the pandemic, we developed the MedMicroMaps novel system of learning to bring invisible abstract words in a text book into interactive 3D models to enhance our understanding of SARS-CoV2. This resource offers engaging visual aids and educational content, simplifying complex scientific concepts.
Visual Learning & Interactive Elements
MedMicroMaps uses visual and tactile representations of microbes to clarify detailed information about SARS-CoV2. The 3D models shows the single stranded RNA genome, lipid envelop (that actually comes from our cells FYI) and Spike proteins that serve as the "key" to the ACE2 "lock" receptor on epithelial and endothelial cells. MedMicroMaps also offers in virtual reality with an interactive scaling map to demonstrate the real sizes of microbes relative to our human elements. The player can be holding a SARS-CoV2 virus in one hand and put an antibody that is accurately sized onto the virus model with the other hand!
MedMicroMaps is THE ONLY way to learn microbiology!
Moving Forward: Lessons Learned
Our COVID journey, though frustrating, taught us valuable lessons. Here are key takeaways:
Stay Informed: The landscape of COVID-19 and other infections is constantly changing (Measles, Bird Flu, Whooping Cough, yes I can on....). Following trusted sources helps guide informed decisions.
Use Visual Learning Tools: Resources like MedMicroMaps make complex topics more engaging and easier to understand for everyone.
Community Matters: By sharing knowledge about SARS-CoV2, we can create a safer environment for ourselves and those around us. MASK UP!
Important Takeaways
Using MedMicroMaps to share our understanding of SARS-CoV2 with others has been incredibly rewarding, though my lungs are paying the price right now. We hope our story motivates you to explore the complexities of contagion and the importance of community health. Together, we can educate others—each shared piece of information has the potential to make a significant difference.
Starting next week, I am launching Meet A Microbe Monday to share knowledge, trivia and stories about my beloved viruses and bacteria. Stay tuned!
All the best, Dr. Jane & Team MedMicroMaps
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