Aims & Learning Objectives:
Aims: To explore the relationship between viruses and their environment. This will include discussion of the impact of viruses and other pathogens, on human and plant health, with emphasis on those transmitted by vectors. The dynamics of viruses as disease-causing agents and the factors that have contributed to disease emergence, and pathogen spread, in the wider environment, will be examined using a case studies approach, with examples drawn from developing countries; disease management strategies will be considered.
After taking this course the student should be able to:
* understand the relationship between viruses and their environment and the impact of viral and other pathogens on people, plants and countries.
Content:
Topics to be selected, include the following areas: origins and epidemiology of viruses; virus transmission and distribution; viruses within the marine environment; food and waterborne viruses; effects of viruses in agriculture; virus problems in developing countries; emergence of viral and other pathogens (e.g. BSE, SARS, influenza, geminiviruses etc.); pathogen reservoirs; disease management; bioterrorism.
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