Download Ecology of Infectious Disease

Ecology of Infectious Disease
MCB 4202 and BSC 6932
(3 credits)
Dr. Bina Nayak
Prerequisites: MCB 3020C or PCB 3043
Course Description
Infectious diseases are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa and
worms. They have had a dramatic effect on human history, and continue to be
a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the 21st century (think cholera and
Ebola virus!). Infectious diseases also affect animal and plant health, and can
have dramatic effects on ecosystems. Our ability to control disease depends
in part on our understanding of the interactions of these organisms with their
host(s) and with the surrounding environment. This course will focus on the
ecology of infectious disease, including microbial survival and infectivity
strategies and the interactions of microorganisms with their host(s). It
emphasizes interpretation of data and research articles, as well as classroom
interactions and presentations.