Definition and classification of communicable diseases

Historical pandemics and their impact on public health

Epidemiology of communicable diseases

Transmission dynamics and patterns of common communicable diseases

Surveillance methods and outbreak investigation

Principles of infection prevention and control

Vaccination programs and herd immunity

Global health security and pandemic preparedness

Role of international organizations in pandemic preparedness (WHO, CDC)

Strategies for early detection and response to outbreaks

Factors contributing to the emergence of new infectious diseases

Case studies of recent outbreaks

Pandemic planning and response frameworks

Coordination of public health interventions during pandemics

Effects of pandemics on healthcare systems and economies

Societal responses and public perceptions during pandemics

Ethical principles in infectious disease control and pandemic management

Balancing public health measures with individual rights and freedoms

Drawing on contemporary literature, undertake an evaluation and critical assessment of national/international response to a communicable disease outbreak of your choice. Focus upon lessons learned and recommendations to support preparedness and planning for future eventualities.

This assessment will cover all learning outcomes.

Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the classification, epidemiology and transmission of communicable diseases.

Knowledge & Understanding

Critically evaluate strategies for early detection and response to outbreaks.

Analysis

Enquiry

Analyse the role of national and international organisations in pandemic preparedness, planning and co-ordination of public health interventions during pandemics.

Analysis

Enquiry

Application

Critically assess the impact of pandemics upon healthcare systems and public access to healthcare.

Learning

Application

Problem-solving

Key concepts will be delivered through lead lectures delivered through the university’s Virtual Learning Environment. This will then be followed by online synchronous discussion groups/seminars allowing learners to explore key issues and discuss the application to their particular working contexts.

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

Online learning resources and guides

Library and academic resources

Recorded supplementary material

Carr, S., Unwin, N. & Pless-Mulloli, T. (2007) An introduction to Public Health and Epidemiology. 2nd edition. Open University Press.

Chen Y.Y.B., Deonandan R., Theriault S., Halabi S., Flood C.M. (2024) Pandemics, Public Health, and the Regulation of Borders: Lessons from COVID-19. Oxford: Taylor & Francis

This module covers the spectrum of communicable diseases, from classification to historical pandemics' impact on public health. Study disease epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and surveillance methods. Learn infection prevention principles, vaccination strategies, and global pandemic preparedness efforts led by organizations like WHO and CDC. Explore outbreak response strategies, factors contributing to new disease emergence, and ethical considerations in pandemic management, balancing public health measures with individual rights.