Paul Ewald: Can we domesticate germs?

The video explores how evolutionary biology can inform the design and control of disease organisms. It discusses the concept of disease virulence from a germ's perspective, focusing on how transmission methods influence harmfulness. The speaker examines waterborne diseases like cholera, showing how blocking waterborne transmission can lead to milder strains. The video also highlights the potential to control antibiotic resistance and malaria through evolutionary strategies, such as mosquito-proofing. Overall, it emphasizes using evolutionary principles to guide public health interventions.

What potential experiment is suggested to study the evolution of Vibrio cholerae?

Discuss the implications of mosquito-proof housing on malaria transmission.

What were the findings regarding cholera strains in Chile compared to Ecuador?

How can controlling waterborne transmission influence the evolution of antibiotic resistance?