MPH2051

Communicable diseases control in developing countries ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr M Creati

Offered:
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit provides students with an understanding of the major communicable diseases and their contribution to the disease burden in developing countries. This course covers the epidemiology of common syndromes and communIcable diseases of public health importance in developing countries and transitional societies. In considering public health control strategies the unit will look at the many environmental causes which enhance pathogens causes of communicable disease, and will focus on the design and management of appropriate prevention and control strategies, using both theoretical models and practical examples.

Objectives: On completion of the unit, students should be able to: 1. Identify and justify appropriate approaches to disease monitoring and surveillance, outbreak and epidemic investigation, and disease control program evaluation. 2. Demonstrate an understanding of the environmental context of the most common communicable diseases in developing countries, including appropriate use of resources and the development of systems to provide adequate water, sanitation, vector control and treatment services. 3. Demonstrate skills in the planning, implementation and evaluation of disease control programs, as well as preparedness for, and control of, epidemics.

Homepage: www.med.monash.edu.au/epidemiology/postgrad/

Assessment: Short exercise (15%), Program plan for control of communicable disease (essay) (45%), Short-answer examination (40%).

Contact Hours: 2 x 2 weekday contact hours and 1 x 7 weekend contact hours and 4 x 4 weekday contact hours

Prerequisites: Basic computer proficiency