Mental Floss

DISEASE









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A couple of long-suffering scientists from Australia donated their time—and their gas—to figuring out whether farts can spread disease.

Hannah McDonald












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Narcolepsy is defined by daytime drowsiness, and in some cases, sleep paralysis, hallucinations, and the sudden loss of muscle control. Here are more facts about this often-misunderstood disorder.

Michele Debczak


A circa 1860s lithograph titled "Fire: The horrors of crinoline & the destruction of human life."

In the Victorian era, a glass of water, a beautiful dress, or a brightly colored piece of wallpaper could all spell your doom.

Claire Cock-Starkey


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There are different types of epileptic seizures that come with different epilepsy symptoms. Here are some more facts about this neurological condition.

Michele Debczak
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Bees, like many animals, are polyandrous—meaning females partner with multiple mates. And they might need their own PSAs about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases.

Shaunacy Ferro