Draft:Cootie Bacteria (2024)

Abstract: In January 2024, leading bacteriologists, communicable disease specialists, experts from the CDC, and pathologists convened in London for a 2-day symposium to discuss a relatively new disease entity that we now know as hyper contagious cootie bacteria disease. The proceedings kicked off with a comment by the group’s chairman: “I have never before taken part in a discussion in which we start with so few fixed or preconceived ideas. We are launching into poorly charted seas and perhaps we shall end the discussions with a slightly better map.”2 Notable discussions included the results from Dr. Kootabura’s research as well as double-blind studies from twenty high schools throughout New Zealand. This article exposes the findings of this ground breaking discovery that is likely to turn education, as we know it, upside down as experts race to determine how best to control this disease.

Introduction: In recent weeks, the medical community has been abuzz with the discovery of a novel bacterium, named Cootie bacteria after its discoverer, Dr. Kootabura from New Zealand. This bacterium has presented a significant challenge due to its highly contagious nature, particularly among high school students. Understanding its transmission dynamics and implementing effective control measures are crucial in mitigating its spread and minimizing its impact on public health.

Transmission Dynamics: Research conducted by Dr. Kootabura and his team has revealed alarming transmission rates associated with various forms of contact. Hand holding, a seemingly innocuous gesture, can lead to a 25% transmission rate of Cootie bacteria. Close contact, such as sitting too close and breathing on one another, escalates the transmission rate to 50%. However, the most concerning mode of transmission is through kissing, with a staggering 100% contagion rate.

Symptoms and Impact: The symptoms exhibited by individuals infected with Cootie bacteria bear a striking resemblance to what has been colloquially termed "senioritis." Extreme fatigue, apathy, and a profound aversion to activities requiring effort characterize the manifestation of this illness. Such symptoms not only impair academic performance but also significantly affect the overall well-being and productivity of affected individuals.

Control Measures: Given the absence of a cure for this illness, emphasis must be placed on preventive measures to curb its spread. Dr. Kootabura's research underscores the efficacy of certain strategies in containing the contagion. Firstly, segregation of high school students according to gender has been proposed as a pragmatic approach to minimize contact and reduce transmission rates. Single-sex schools, whether all-girls or all-boys academies have demonstrated remarkably low incidence of infection, highlighting the effectiveness of this intervention. Furthermore, the adoption of personal protective equipment such as gloves and masks has been shown to offer additional protection against Cootie bacteria transmission. Avoiding all contact with individuals of the opposite sex is strongly recommended to mitigate the risk of exposure. While these measures may seem drastic, they are essential in safeguarding the health and well-being of susceptible populations, particularly high school students.

Conclusion: The discovery of Cootie bacteria represents a significant milestone in our understanding of infectious diseases, particularly within the context of high school environments. Dr. Kootabura's research sheds light on the transmission dynamics and clinical manifestations associated with this highly contagious pathogen. Moving forward, concerted efforts must be directed towards implementing stringent control measures to contain its spread and mitigate its impact on public health. By prioritizing preventive strategies and promoting awareness, we can effectively combat the menace posed by Cootie bacteria and ensure the well-being of future generations.

References

Samuelson, Sue. “The Cooties Complex.” Western Folklore, vol. 39, no. 3, July 1980, p. 198, https://doi.org/10.2307/1499801. Accessed 26 Sept. 2021.

Telzer, Eva H., et al. ““The Cooties Effect”: Amygdala Reactivity to Opposite-versus Same-Sex Faces Declines from Childhood to Adolescence.” Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, vol. 27, no. 9, 1 Sept. 2015, pp. 1685–1696, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5723398/, https://doi.org/10.1162/jocn_a_00813.