Pandemic Outbreaks & Control

Understand and gain scientific insights into the infectious disease epidemiology

Introduction

Virus outbreaks have been part of human history. Since record of first epidemic in 1647 in Barbedos, several infections have been discovered that can affect human population. SARS-CoV2 pandemic has highlighted the substantial mortality and economic burdens associated with viral infections.

Curriculum: Course Code - AT031

With this course, we focus upon scientific insights into the infectious disease epidemiology. We dive deep into biology of initial detection of infection, characterization of viruses, tracking the outbreak to finding solutions to contain the spread. We designed this course to bring the most updated scientific knowledge in the context of virus outbreaks that can lead to Pandemics. Infectious disease poses one of the greatest health challenges that often arise from zoonotic viruses. We focus upon origin, transmission and scientific solutions to the global problem. As part of the program, we will teach thoroughly curated scientific know-how knowledge via lectures. We bring opinions from the experts in the field like Dr. Anothony Fauci, Dr. Bruce Walker, Dr Britt Glaunsinger and several other who have dedicated their lives studying these outbreaks.

Capstone Project

In this program, students will be working on a project of Solving mystery of hypothetical outbreak of an unknown virus: Finding _patient-0_ via implementation of WHO protocols, approach and solutions. Students will be able to understand the scientific principles and the rigor that underlie the approach highlighted by the literature and research. By the conclusion of this course, students will have a good exposure and understanding of several what, how and why questions around viral outbreaks, infectious diseases and epidemiology. Our past students have found the course helpful in crystalizing their path forward in college/career. Lastly, as a part of this nurturing community, you will have access to all our instructors, alumni, and fellow students to discuss and ask questions.

Highlights

  • Difference between Outbreak, Epidemic and Pandemic
  • First report of outbreaks
  • Barriers to infection
  • Transmission chain tracking
  • Mapping of outbreak
  • Virus evolution and spread
  • HIV, SARS, MERS, Hantavirus, Ebola, Corona Viruses etc
  • Challenges head
  • Therapeutics: Vaccines and Antiviral drugs
  • Therapeutic viruses
  • Immunity & Vaccination
Career counseling about an increasingly wide range of available careers, including research (academic & Pharmaceutical company based), teaching, Medical practitioners, to name a few.
We will further discuss new career profiles in the field of biotechnology with industry professionals. We will provide additional career resources, highlight potential jobs along with answering any and all your questions.

Activities & Credits

Poster Making
Students learn to make high quality science posters & hone their presentation skills.
Report/Paper
Learn to draft scientific write-ups with clear and convincing narratives.
Certificates
Outstanding students also get opportunities for long-term projects with mentors.