COVID-19 and Other Viruses

Coronavirus and Basic Virology

As many schools reopen for the year, we could all use a review of basic virology.  Connor Wander enlists the help of Calvin Yeager, a UNC Virology UNC PhD Candidate.  Connor and Calvin break down the basics of the viral life cycle and how we can use this knowledge to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses.

Coronavirus is everywhere right now. Whether on the streets or the news, it’s nearly impossible to avoid.  Most of us are tired of quarantine and can’t wait to get back to our normal lives, but that can’t happen safely unless we know how to protect ourselves and others. 

This game is still in development! Please note we do not currently have full mobile compatibility.  *Audio is only completed for game modules with green progress bars below*

To test the main game, click here

Or click the Links below to play/test individual stages.  I am constantly adding new ones!

Viral Replication
How do viruses replicate? 98%
Viral Transmission (Why We Need Masks)
How do coronaviruses and other viruses spread? 99%
Introduction & Credits
Know thy enemy 95%
COVID-19 and Other Viruses
This is the central game platform! Stages open in a new window! 70%
What Are Viruses?
What are viruses? Are they all bad? 92%
What is COVID-19?
What is Coronavirus? 92%
Flattening the Curve (Or not)
What could happen if we aren't careful? 49%
COVID-19 and Permanent Tissue Damage
The scariest part about coronavirus? 42%

COVID-19 and Other Viruses is a work in progress and will be continually updated to reflect the science of Coronavirus.  For up to date statistics and advisories, please refer to the CDC Website.

Bugs or issues? Please let me know on Twitter @sfromascientist or Instagram @straightfromascientist.

Instructions and Tips

Game modules are designed to open in a new window, then close at the end, in order to maximize performance.  If any module freezes, try refreshing the page.  Try clicking pictures, virons, or cells to proceed through the game.

Want to learn more?

Check our podcastsarticles, and other science games!

Full podcast episodes: Straight From a Scientist and Curioscity 

To do list:

The red cross in the middle opens a quiz section, which is not yet fully designed.  What vocabulary do you want your students to retain? Reach out to us and let us know which lesson(s) were most impactful, or which ones could be improved.

Loading times are long for Replication & Later Steps.  Still Optimizing!

All segments after the intro sequence are unfinished and need audio and pacing tweaks.

Making buttons more obvious to click (please click or tap around if you get stuck).

Join the discussion!