Is Bieber Fever an infectious disease?

Canadian pop superstar, Justin Bieber

Watch out for the “Bieber Fever”. It is more infectious than the measles, according to a new study.

Using mathematical models, researchers at the University of Ottawa found that “Bieber Fever” (when fans become hysterical over Canadian pop star/teen heartthrob Justin Bieber) is the most contagious disease of our time. Symptoms include uncontrollable crying and/or screaming, excessive purchasing of memorabilia, and distraction from every day life.

So, is urgent action needed to combat this disease? No, not really.

The researchers were using the pop star’s phenomenal growth in popularity as a stand-in to see how an actual infectious disease spreads around the world. For example: one of the researchers met some elementary students in Canada, and some master’s level students in Africa, and all of them had heard of Justin Bieber.

During health pandemics (such as SARS in Toronto in 2003), the Canadian Red Cross works with public health authorities to help vulnerable people. As well, the Red Cross helps communities to be prepared for any possible health emergencies.

Check out this video by the IFRC to see how you can protect yourself and your loved ones during a real health pandemic.