Microbial pathogens in the movies

Abstract

Usuall y, show business de picts viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms as one of the worse menaces to mankind. Entertainment movies influence the way audiences understand and perceive these topics. F e w films accurately portray the science of microbiology and its social implications. Movies and TV series often feature outbreaks of deadly diseases and the efforts of scientists and medical professionals to contain them. Ho wever, entertainment mo vies can also be used to educate the public about the importance and the impact that microorganisms have on our li v es, helping to incr ease pub lic aw ar eness and appr eciation of the world of microbiology. The aim of this re vie w is to show the relationship between movies and micr obiology, fr om the fight against diseases such as AIDS or tuberculosis, to the zombie apocalypse.