Why Zombies?

A zombie apocalypse may seem hokey, but it is actually well validated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Zombies are catchy. The biological nature of a virus or other agent spreading illness forces simulation teams to utilize proper hygiene, establish vaccination centers and use isolation or quarantine protocols. It also allows for several levels of disease and allows teams to practice triaging by severity of illness.

Zombies destroy society. In addition to the biological ramifications, zombie outbreaks destroy societal frameworks. Healthcare practitioners in this environment need to provide psychological first aid, stabilize injuries from abuse or other trauma, treat drug use and exacerbated common conditions (troubled pregnancy, dehydration, diabetes, etc.).

Unlike "realistic" scenarios, the skills learned from a zombie outbreak are generalizable to every disaster and emergency. 

"If you are generally well equipped to deal with a zombie apocalypse, you will be prepared for a hurricane, pandemic, earthquake, or terrorist attack." - Dr. Ali Khan, Director, CDC