In this storytime episode, Dr. Miller shares a real-life medical case that starts out like any ordinary visit, but takes an unexpected turn when the patient is discovered to have Ascaris, a type of parasitic roundworm.Through this fascinating case, you’ll hear how Ascaris worms (Ascaris lumbricoides) can quietly live inside the human body, the surprising symptoms they cause, and how doctors diagnose and treat this parasitic infection. Blending storytelling with medical insight, Dr. Miller walks us through the twists and turns of a patient encounter that shows just how strange (and squirmy) the world of human parasites can be.You’ll learn:The story of a patient with an unexpected Ascaris infectionHow roundworms affect human health and spread worldwideWhat this case teaches us about infectious diseases and patient careIf you’re curious about parasites, microbiology, unusual medical cases, or the science behind worms, this episode delivers an unforgettable mix of medicine and storytelling.
--------
25:36
--------
25:36
Science Swap #2 - Rabies
In this hilarious and eye-opening episode of Germs & Jargon, we’re flipping the script with another round of Science Swap. This time, I, your friendly neighbourhood layman, take a stab at explaining the terrifying and fascinating disease known as rabies, from symptoms to transmission and treatment. Spoiler: I may not have all the facts right.Luckily, Dr. Mark Miller, infectious disease expert, joins in to set the record straight. He breaks down the real science behind how rabies spreads, why it’s so deadly, and what modern medicine can (and can’t) do about it.If you’ve ever wondered how much you really know about one of the most feared viruses in history, or just want to hear me get corrected in real time, this one’s for you.🧠 Keywords: Rabies, infectious disease, virus, science podcast, microbiology, public health, zoonotic diseases, Dr. Mark Miller, Germs & Jargon, Science Swap
--------
19:17
--------
19:17
Science Swap - The Layman Takes The Lead
In this fun and enlightening episode of Germs & Jargon, we’re flipping the script in our brand-new Science Swap format! Jonathan, your curious layman host, takes a shot at explaining one of the most pressing issues in modern medicine: antibiotic resistance.How close can he get to the real science? Enter Dr. Miller—our resident microbiologist and infectious disease expert—who will grade, correct, and clarify the explanation while dropping real, research-backed insights.Expect laughs, learning, and a few science stumbles along the way as we explore:What causes antibiotic resistance?Why it’s a global health threatMisconceptions about antibioticsHow we can all help slow resistanceIf you’ve ever wondered what “superbugs” are or why your doctor won’t always prescribe antibiotics, this episode is for you.
--------
19:50
--------
19:50
Culture Queries #2 Q&A
Ever wondered if eggs really need to be refrigerated? Why astronauts don’t catch colds on the ISS? Or what connects a fungal rash on your foot to a ring on your arm? In this listener-powered episode of Germs & Jargon, Dr. Miller and Jonathan dive into your submitted questions from how fevers help your body fight back, to the surprising science behind athlete’s foot and ringworm. It's a whirlwind of microbiology, infectious disease trivia, and some myth-busting along the way.🔬 Topics covered:Do fevers help or hurt?The cold truth about microbes on the ISSWhy egg storage differs across countriesRingworm vs. athlete’s foot—same fungus, different PRTune in for answers, laughs, and a few “ew” moments.Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
--------
26:10
--------
26:10
Famous, Infected & Unexpected
In this compelling episode of Germs & Jargon, we uncover the surprising infectious disease stories behind some of the most iconic celebrities: Rosie O'Donnell’s battle with a rare bacterial infection, Justin Bieber’s diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome, Christopher Reeve’s struggle with chronic infections after his spinal injury, and the tragic case of Jim Henson’s fatal bacterial pneumonia.Join us as we explore how these infectious diseases affected their lives, careers, and legacies and what their stories reveal about early symptoms, delayed treatment, and public awareness. From viral syndromes to bacterial killers, we break down the science, symptoms, and stigma behind these illnesses.Whether you're into microbiology, celebrity health stories, or just love fascinating medical history, this episode is packed with insight, science, and storytelling.Disclaimer: this podcast and its hosts and guests are delivering educational material. They are not providing professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are concerned that you might have a medical illness, seek appropriate healthcare.
Welcome to Germs & Jargon, where science meets storytelling! Join Dr. Miller, an infectious disease expert, and Jonathan Hope, your curious co-host, as they break down microbiology (the study of germs), immunology (our ability to fight off disease), and infectious diseases into bite-sized, easy-to-understand conversations.
We tackle the microscopic world in a way that makes sense—no special training or knowledge required. Dr. Miller unpacks the jargon around the germs, while Jonathan asks the questions you really want answered.
South Africa