340.654.81
Epidemiology and Natural History of Human Viral Infections

Location
Internet
Term
1st Term
Department
Epidemiology
Credit(s)
6
Academic Year
2024 - 2025
Instruction Method
Asynchronous Online with Some Synchronous Online
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Homayoon Farzadegan
Contact Name
Homayoon Farzadegan
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Prerequisite

Introduction to Online Learning.
There are no other prerequisites for this course. However, an understanding of basic science, biology, and epidemiology will be assumed. Basic epidemiologic principles and other quantitative skills will be useful for understanding the distribution of the disease and in interpreting research findings.

Description
Emphasizes biology, epidemiology and pathogenesis of diseases caused by human viruses. Discusses virus interaction with host, diagnostic methodologies, immunization and treatment of viral infections. Examines relationships between oncogenesis and viral infections, such as Hepatitis/liver cancer, HPV/cervical cancer, EBV/Burkitt’s lymphoma and HTLV/leukemia. Covers the biology and natural history of major viral families (such as retroviruses, rabies, and others). Also covers Prion diseases, which are similar to, but not viral infections.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  1. Describe the biological and genetic structures and functions of viruses and their components
  2. Identify the physiologic steps of viral pathogenesis
  3. Discuss virus-host interactions
  4. Recognize the advantages and limiting factors related to antiviral treatment options
  5. List several viruses and describe the processes by which they can cause cancer
  6. Recall the interaction between viral agents and other factors in the disease pathway
  7. Compare the pathogenesis of retroviruses with other viruses, including the mechanisms of invasion and integration and synthesis of new viral particles
  8. Recognize and describe the issues of treatment, prevention, and future concerns of human immunodeficiency virus and AIDS
  9. Compare and contrast the epidemiology and natural history of other human viral pathogens, including influenza, herpes simplex virus, bovine spongiform encephalitis and others
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
  • 20% LiveTalks
  • 20% Self-assessments
  • 40% Final Paper
  • 20% Participation
Instructor Consent
No consent required
Special Comments

Content similar to 260.623-624