My wife and I had a conversation this afternoon that prompted this post.

This is a caduceus:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is the staff of Asclepius (as part of the American Medical Association symbol):

 

 

 

 

 

The caduceus is the staff carried by Hermes, the messenger of the gods.  As such, it is also a symbol associated with messengers and printers (considering that printing is a form of communication, and therefore within the realm of the messenger. It is also used today as a symbol of commerce.

 The rod of Asclepius is the symbol of the god of the same name, who is associated with healing and medicine. Today, this symbol retains its association with medicine and is often found incorporated in the signs of medical facilities.

Unfortunately, these two similar symbols are sometimes confused.

 

 For example, this student is clearly asking for donations so that he can afford the education to know the difference between a caduceus and a rod of Asclepius.

Maybe once he’s got that in order he can start studying medicine.