Explain the difference between communicable and non-communicable diseases, with two school-related examples for each.

• A. Communicable diseases spread via contact (influenza, chickenpox).
• B. Non-communicable diseases spread via contact (diabetes, asthma).
• C. Both types spread via air.
• D. Communicable diseases spread via contact; non-communicable diseases do not spread (diabetes, asthma).

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is whether a disease can be transmitted from one person to another. Communicable diseases involve pathogens like viruses or bacteria and can spread between people through close contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces. Non-communicable diseases, on the other hand, are not contagious—they don’t spread from person to person and arise from factors like genetics, lifestyle, or environment.

Two school-related examples of communicable diseases are influenza (the flu) and chickenpox. In a classroom, flu can spread when an infected student talks, coughs, or sneezes, and chickenpox can spread through direct contact with blisters or through airborne droplets, especially in crowded settings.

Two school-related examples of non-communicable diseases are asthma and diabetes. These are not contagious; asthma is a chronic condition affecting the airways and can be triggered by exercise or allergens, while diabetes involves blood sugar management and requires ongoing care, but cannot be passed from one student to another.

Thus, the distinction is that communicable diseases spread between people, while non-communicable diseases do not.