The subject introduces the student to the concepts associated with the study of microbiology and epidemiology. Students will be introduced to the concept of the germ theory of disease and the evidence that led to its adoption in modern culture. The classes of micro-organisms that contribute to microbiology will be introduced and discussed especially in their ability to travel and cause disease. As the evolution of the germ as a disease causing organism parallels the development of epidemiology as an important tool for investigating public health the second topic investigated in this subject introduces the students to the study of epidemiology and the role that it plays in health promotion in a modern world.

1. Define the term microbe and outline the various types of microbes including prions.
2. Demonstrate the basic differences in biochemistry among viruses, prokaryote and eukaryote microbes, especially as they relate to chemotherapy.
3. Interpret the key characteristics of bacteria and distinguish between the general characteristics of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, acid-fast bacteria, Rickettsiae, Mycoplasmata and Chlamydiae.
4. Interpret the key characteristics of fungi and distinguish between moulds and yeasts and be able to define the terms endospores, fungal spores and binary fission.
5. Interpret the key characteristics of viruses and be able to subdivide the various viral families
6. Interpret the key characteristics of parasites and be able to categorise them into the major groups.
7. Describe the general characteristics of an infection and identify important pathogenic organisms from all families of microbes and relate these to the common diseases associated with them.
8. Identify the different methods of transmitting microbes and relate these to the spread of infection.
9. Analyse methods for prevention and control of infection and relate these to the National Guidelines pertaining to Standard and Additional Precautions.
10. Identify the key features of epidemiology, being able to define the terms epidemic, pandemic, endemic and sporadic.
11. Justify the use of different epidemiological methods in significant disease burden studies.
12. Evaluate the outcomes of epidemiological interventions.

1. Online Quizzes x 2. Weeks 4 & 10. 20% & 35%.
2. Closed book Final Exam. Week 15. 45%.

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