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Description
This module provides an introduction to the fascinating and important discipline of infection. Common pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and parasites are discussed in relation to their biology and the diseases they cause. The focus of the module is pathogenicity: the capacity to cause disease.
We will consider: how the immune system provides protection against infection; how pathogens manage to flourish in the face of the formidable array of host protective mechanisms; how vaccines and drugs can be used in the fight against infection. Considerable emphasis will be placed on critical discussion of these core concepts.
SARS-CoV-2 has, of course, focused attention on infectious diseases and we will consider some key aspects of the virus and disease. However, we will still consider a range of other highly important human pathogens, remembering that our understanding of them has informed our understanding of (and response to) the current pandemic.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module you will have a working knowledge of:
- Common infectious diseases and the agents that cause them.
- The factors that influence pathogenicity.
- How the immune system provides protection against infection.
- How vaccines and drugs can be used in the fight against infection.
- How to critically review the development of concepts in this subject.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.
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