260.655.01
Pandemics of the 20Th Century
Location
East Baltimore
Term
3rd Term
Department
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
Credit(s)
1
Academic Year
2023 - 2024
Instruction Method
In-person
Wednesday, 1:30 - 2:20pm
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
Yes
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Contact Name
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Resources
Focuses on major pandemics in the human population that have occurred in the 20th century and in particular, the 1918 influenza pandemic, the severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (SARS) outbreak of 2002-03 and the emergence of HIV. A discussion of ongoing concerns regarding research into viruses with pandemic potential (Gain of Function experiments) also forms part of the content. For each pandemic, discussion groups cover readings centered around a clinical- or public health-topic and a pathogen-oriented topic in order to give students a broad understanding of the pandemic, as well as to compare and contrast the key aspects of each disease. Compares and contrasts pandemics resulting from acute and chronic diseases, as well as diseases with different routes of transmission and incubation times. Provides a comprehensive overview of how each pandemic emerged, what key factors dictated spread in the population, and how each pathogen induced disease.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Critically evaluate scientific literature on clinical, public health and basic science aspects of major 20th century pandemics
- Comprehensively describe how new diseases emerge into the human population
- Construct a good oral presentation
- Work in a team setting
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
- 20% Presentation(s)
- 60% Participation
- 20% Attendance