Epidemics
“If history is our guide, we can assume that the battle between the intellect and will of the human species and the extraordinary adaptability of microbes will be never-ending.” (1)Despite all the remarkable technological breakthroughs that we have made over the past few decades, the threat from infectious diseases has significantly accelerated. In this course, we will learn why this is the case by looking at the fundamental scientific principles underlying epidemics and the public health actions behind their prevention and control in the 21st century.
This course covers the following four topics:
- Origins of novel pathogens;
- Analysis of the spread of infectious diseases;
- Medical and public health countermeasures to prevent and control epidemics;
- Panel discussions involving leading public health experts with deep frontline experiences to share their views on risk communication, crisis management, ethics and public trust in the context of infectious disease control.
In addition to the original introductory sessions on epidemics, we revamped the course by adding:
- new panel discussions with world-leading experts; and
- supplementary modules on next generation informatics for combating epidemics.
(1) Fauci AS, Touchette NA, Folkers GK. Emerging Infectious Diseases: a 10-Year Perspective from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Emerg Infect Dis 2005 Apr; 11(4):519-25.
What you’ll learn
- Demonstrate knowledge of the origins, spread and control of infectious disease epidemics
- Demonstrate understanding of the importance of effective communication about epidemics
- Demonstrate understanding of key contemporary issues relating to epidemics from a global perspective
None
Syllabus
Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Week 1
Theme One: Origins (Epidemics past, present and future)
Week 2
Theme One: Origins (Emergence and ecology of infectious diseases)
Week 3
Theme One: Origins (Medical Detective: Bug hunting in Epidemics)
Week 4
Theme Two: Spread (Infectious disease epidemiology)
Week 5
Theme Two: Spread (Epidemiological triangle)
Week 6
Theme Two: Spread (Infectious disease modeling)
Week 7
Theme Three: Control (Disease surveillance)
Week 8
Theme Three: Control (Non-pharmaceutical intervention (NPI))
Week 9
Theme Three: Control (Vaccination)
Week 10
Theme Four: Communication (Communicating disease risk)
FAQ
When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?
When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.
Reviews
Possibly the most timely course I've taken with the current state of the Covid-19 epidemic. Very well presented by excellent instructors.
Excellent introduction to communicable diseases, clarify a lot of points especially during covid-19
A very nice, dynamic approach to the topic with communications of experts on the field. A good, stimulating coverage of the themes without dispersal.
I loved how informative this class was, very good information. I also like how you do exams after every section, very easy to learn.
