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01 Jun-02 Jun 2023

Head Quarters

Our Journey with Germs

  • 8 And Over
  • Immune System
  • Medicines
  • Microbes and Parasites

How much do you know about germs? And what does Glasgow have to do with them? Join Kirsty Earley from the RCPSG to learn about our unique relationship with germs! Jump back in time to the not-so-distant past when germs were a mystery, vaccines didn’t exist, and doctors didn’t wash their hands. This recorded live session discusses the goodies and baddies of the germ world, how germs can be transmitted, and the importance of hygiene. Learn about the ground-breaking discoveries that led to our understanding of germs today, from Edward Jenner’s discovery of vaccination to Joseph Lister’s discovery of antisepsis. See items from the College’s heritage collections, including historical surgical instruments and photographs.

About Kirsty Earley

Kirsty Earley is the Digital Heritage and Engagement Officer at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. She has a background in anatomy and visualisation, having studied at the University of Glasgow and the Glasgow School of Art. Her role involves communicating stories of the College and Glasgow’s medical heritage by digital means through photography, video and audio production, animation, and 3D scanning!

Supporting resources:

Kirsty has developed an education pack which delves deeper into the discovery of germs. The pack is suitable for age 11+ but may provide useful additional material. You’ll find downloadable resources below.

Download the resources below.

Click the links below to watch videos which support Kirsty’s live session. Find out more about germs, and the history of vaccination and antisepsis from RCPSG:

Video 1: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow – How Much Do You Know About Germs?

Video 2: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow – The Beginnings of Vaccination

Video 3: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow – Enter Mr Lister