BIOL 3060

This introductory course in medical microbiology is intended for upper-level Biology students (3rd / 4th year). It is designed to incorporate the “One Health” concept of medical microbiology. In the first half of the course, students will learn basic information about infectious diseases, including pathogenic microorganisms that affect primary human body systems, e.g., respiratory tract, skin, reproductive, and digestive systems. Lectures discuss causative organisms, their structure and pathogenicity. The indigenous normal flora of each body system are contrasted with pathogenic/opportunistic microorganisms, in terms of diagnosis. Transmission, epidemiology, treatment and control of infection are also introduced. In the second half of the course, students will have experiential learning about selected infectious diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms in animals (both domesticated and wildlife) via case studies, literature, and guest speakers.