Kaleb’s grandmother just found out that she has diabetes and must make some changes to her diet. So Kalep offers to go grocery shopping for her. Make a list of items that Caleb could buy and a few items that Caleb would want to stay away from and why. 2. Back in centuries past, getting a cut on your leg or an infected tooth could lead to your death. What important scientific advance made bacteria less dangerous to humans? Discuss a time that you were sick and treated for an infection. What would have happened to you if this advancement hadn't been discovered? 3. Neville has a dry cough and a high fever, generally feeling weak all over. After his doctor checks his symptoms and runs some tests, Neville is told that he has caught an infectious virus. Besides being prescribed treatment, Neville is told to stay at home until he tests negative for the virus. The doctor also wants to know who Neville has been around for the past 10 days. Explain why Neville has to stay home, why the doctor wants to know who he has been around, and what that is called in the medical community.

Answer 1

1. Grocery List for Kaleb’s Grandmother with Diabetes

Items to Buy:

1. Non-starchy vegetables: Leafy greens (spinach, kale), broccoli, bell peppers, and cucumbers. These are low in carbohydrates and high in nutrients.
2. Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, whole grain bread, and oats. They have a lower glycemic index compared to refined grains and provide fiber.
3. Lean proteins: Skinless chicken, turkey, fish (especially fatty fish like salmon), and plant-based proteins (tofu, legumes). They help maintain muscle and keep blood sugar levels stable.
4. Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts, and seeds. These can enhance satiety and support heart health.
5. Low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives: Greek yogurt, almond milk, or other low-fat options to provide calcium without added sugars.
6. Fruits in moderation: Berries (strawberries, blueberries) and apples, as they have lower glycemic indices compared to other fruits.

Items to Avoid:

1. Sugary foods and beverages: Sweets, sodas, and pastries can cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
2. White bread, pasta, and rice: These are refined carbohydrates that can lead to increased blood sugar levels quickly.
3. Fried foods: Typically high in unhealthy fats, which can contribute to weight gain and poor heart health.
4. Full-fat dairy products: High in saturated fats, they can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of heart disease.
5. Processed snacks: Chips and other snack foods are usually high in sugars and unhealthy fats.

2. Scientific Advances in Infection Treatment

The important scientific advance that made bacteria less dangerous to humans is the development of antibiotics. Introduced in the early 20th century with the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming, antibiotics became essential in treating bacterial infections effectively and reduced mortality rates significantly.

If I had experienced an infection in the past, like a severe tooth infection, and antibiotics had not been discovered, the untreated infection could have led to serious complications, such as sepsis or spreading of the infection to other parts of the body (like the brain or heart). These outcomes could have had life-threatening consequences, and without the ability to treat bacterial infections efficiently, many people would have faced a much higher risk of death from what are now considered routine infections.

3. Neville’s Situation and Medical Protocol

Neville has to stay home primarily to prevent the spread of the infectious virus he has caught. Staying at home (also known as self-isolation) is crucial to protect others from exposure to the virus, especially those who may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly or individuals with compromised immune systems.

The doctor wants to know who Neville has been around for the past 10 days for contact tracing purposes. This process allows health officials to identify, inform, and possibly test individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, helping to contain any further spread of the infection. Contact tracing is an essential public health practice during outbreak situations and helps ensure that those at risk receive appropriate monitoring or treatment.