Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will achieve a basic understanding of aspects of infection including pathogenesis, epidemiology, immunity and use of antibiotics; be able to demonstrate the diversity of microorganisms using selected genera; gain an appreciation of the practical importance of microorganisms in medicine, agriculture, industry and the environment; be able to explain strategies of viral replication and how these relate to viral structure and classification.
Synopsis Interactions of microorganisms with each other or with other types of living organisms including man are considered, leading to a study of their practical importance in medicine, agriculture, industry and the environment. Aspects of infection which are studied include pathogenesis, epidemiology, basic immunity and an introduction to antibiotics. Viruses are introduced as the ultimate parasites or infectious molecules; their structure is related to their strategies of replication in living cells and to their classification.
Assessment Examinations (3 hours): 60% + Practical work/Laboratory work: 40%