Discussion Instructions: Write a thoughtful 2-3 paragraph posting on your chosen topic. (NOTE: a paragraph should have 4-5 sentences!) Reference your sources give me the exact page is needed. There should be at least 2 references.
Rubric- Excellent
Comments make clear references to specific prompts in question; include specific details
Comments well-supported; original thought; at least 2 credible sources (at least 1 outside source); properly cited
Comments are articulate and show high level of thought related to topic
Writing is well organized and free of sp/gr errors
Using Genetics to Trace and Stop Disease Outbreaks
Legionella sp. colonies
During the summer of 2015, New York City clinics and hospitals began reporting an increase in patients testing positive for Legionnaires’ disease. This serious bacterial respiratory infection is caused by Legionella pneumophila, a fastidious Gram-negative bacteria. By the end of the outbreak there were 128 infections reported, with 12 deaths.
Rather than simply monitor these outbreaks, public health officials are tasked with tracing sources and trying to stop further infections. Health officials for both New York City and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) worked to identify the source of the pathogen, as well as the specific strain responsible. This bacterium usually grows in water environments, so cooling towers for air-conditioning systems in large buildings were screened as a potential source. DNA fingerprinting confirmed that the strain infecting patients was identical to a strain isolated from a single cooling tower on a hotel in the Bronx. The tower was decontaminated, and new infections stopped.
