The “Chain of Infection” from an artist’s perspective.
- Jane Isley
- Mar 31
- 2 min read
Updated: May 7
Blending art, writing, and science.
There is a term that the medical and scientific fields use that is called the
“Chain of Infection.”
Most frequently explained by using visual aids to show how each step of an infectious disease is connected and easily spread when proper precautions aren’t taken. It signifies the importance of breaking a chain to reduce the spread of illness.
I can not help but see a striking similarity between this and something else….
What is it that I saw that prompted me to do this project?
Continue reading to see how I view this.
Infectious Pathogens = Medical Professionals
Reservoir: They come in with a bias, prejudice, or assumption about a person or a diagnosis. These biases, prejudices, or assumptions stay with them, this is where the stigma starts to grow. Hardened opinions are then formed, and now, a stigma has the strength to grow and mutate.
Portal of Exit: With their perception of a diagnosis now tarnished, they open their mouths. They speak in a manner that gives an indication of their preconceived notions and it is now ready to spread to surrounding minds.
Mode of Transmission: As with any virus, it is too small to be seen at first. Someone holding a stigma doesn’t show they are a carrier of such a virus, but everywhere they go, every person they meet is exposed to this virus through their touch, mouth, and eyes.
Portal of Entry: Young minds seeking education and understanding are met with flawed, faulty, and ignorant information. This virus, a stigma passed from peers and educators, is transferred around, seeking new hosts to bind to.
Next Sick Person: Vulnerable, young, and susceptible minds, while yes, some are immune, but the majority contract the virus to varying degrees of severity. A stigma has now been integrated, and the cycle inevitably repeats itself.
If you are fortunate to be healthy, thank the Lord for your blessing. There are those out there who aren’t with some having complicated and long-term medical issues where they are caught up in the middle of this cycle.
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