Infectious Diseases 2025

The Future of Tuberculosis in Canada: Emerging Challenges and New Technologies - Team 1

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

Granulomatous inflammation is an immune response to certain conditions where the body attempts to wall-off and isolate the affected site. It is typically characterized by a necrotic tissue core surrounded by epithelioid macrophages and a rim of lymphocytes. A frequent cause of granulomatous inflammation is tuberculosis, caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

When a person becomes infected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, it can cause either latent TB or active TB. In latent TB, the bacteria remains dormant, non-contagious, and does not cause any symptoms. In active TB, however, the bacteria actively proliferates and results in inflammation and damage to lung tissue. In cases where Mycobacterium tuberculosis breaks out of the granuloma, it can spread to other parts of the body and lead to more severe disease. Patients with active TB can also transmit the bacteria via aerosols when coughing, sneezing, or speaking.

This project aims to explore the pathology, etiology, treatment, and epidemiology of tuberculosis in Canada. Learners can explore our website to find out more about Mycobacterium tuberculosis, multidrug-resistant TB, developments in TB research, and global statistics. Additionally, an embedded podcast episode will allow learners to listen in on the insights of an expert who has been working on TB research for over 20 years. Topics discussed in the episode include the social implications of TB in Canada, some of the stigma surrounding the disease, the difficulties of researching the bacteria, and what policymakers, scientists, and citizens alike can do to contribute to a solution.

The contents of our website and podcast are intended to serve as an extension of the discussion of TB, infectious diseases, respiratory diseases, and inflammation in class. By providing accurate information, the team hopes to combat some of the stigma and spread awareness to a disease that many think of as a thing of the past.

Keywords: Tuberculosis, infectious disease, respiratory disease, granulomas, societal impacts

HPV Unmasked: What You Need to Know - Team 15

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of more than 200 related viruses that cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Canada and worldwide. HPV has many outcomes, including progression to cancer or skin lesions like anogenital warts. In Canada, it is estimated that 75% of unvaccinated sexually active individuals will contract HPV at some point, though the infection can be cleared by the immune system. Despite the lack of cure for HPV infections, vaccination options are available and early detection measures are good prevention measures.2, 6

Our PULSE team assignment is an infographic that aims to educate and raise awareness to others on what HPV is, prevention measures, transmission, and other key details about the HPV. The infographic will include clear and concise explanation blurbs associated with related and simple graphics, fun facts, and a simplistic design. By incorporating balanced text with images and colour, individuals can get a solid grasp of HPV in a short period of time.

HPV is one of the most common STIs transmitted worldwide, and as such it is important that individuals are aware of it. By educating others on this topic, the prevalence of the disease may be reduced, and prognosis of infected individuals may be improved if caught early. Overall, this infographic will introduce HPV in a simplistic yet informative manner to help raise awareness and prevent it.

Keywords: HPV, Prevention, Transmission, Risk factors, Treatment, Prognosis

The Story of HIV: From Infection to Treatment - Team 35

Media Type: Infographic

Summary

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is an infectious disease that is a major global health challenge. HIV attacks and kills parts of the immune system, weakening the body’s ability to fight infections. If left untreated, the disease can progress to a very deadly condition called acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, also known as AIDS. Despite decades of research, there is still no cure. However, when diagnosed early, certain medications have allowed people with HIV to manage their condition and live for many years.

Our project is a comprehensive infographic titled “The Story of HIV: From Infection to Treatment”, designed to guide learners through the complex journey of HIV in a clear and engaging way. The infographic walks through the virus’s structure, how it enters and replicates in the body, the stages of infection, and immune system impacts. It also highlights diagnostic tools, antiretroviral therapy as a key treatment strategy, effective prevention methods, and why certain people are at greater risk of infection.

We chose the infographic format to simplify dense scientific information using visuals and organized subsections. To support different learning styles, we included an AI-narration so that people can listen along while reading. The myth-busting section aims to correct common misunderstandings about HIV, which are often a source of fear and stigma. Also included is a QR code that links to a question bank and additional resources, allowing viewers to test what they’ve learned and explore further support if needed.

This project was created to promote HIV literacy among students and the general public. By making scientific concepts more understandable, we aim to raise awareness, promote safer behaviours, and reduce stigma. Education is one of the most powerful tools we have in preventing HIV, and we hope this resource supports informed, compassionate conversations that lead to meaningful change.

Keywords: HIV, AIDS, Chronic, Immunodeficiency, Antiretroviral Therapy, Opportunistic Infections