Unit 1636: Infectious Diseases

1. Introduction to Infectious Diseases

• Definition and characteristics of infectious diseases
• Causes of infectious diseases (infectious agents)
• Modes of transmission overview
• Impact on individuals and populations: morbidity, mortality, and social-economic effects

2. Types of Infectious Agents

• Bacteria
  • Structure and characteristics
  • Examples of bacterial diseases
• Viruses
  • Viral structure and replication
  • Examples of viral diseases
• Fungi
  • Types of pathogenic fungi
  • Fungal infections
• Parasites
  • Protozoa and helminths overview
  • Parasitic diseases
• Prions
  • Definition and unique features
  • Prion diseases

3. Transmission of Infectious Diseases

• Direct contact transmission
• Indirect contact transmission
• Airborne transmission
• Foodborne transmission
• Vector-borne transmission
• Other modes (vertical, fomites, droplets)
• Factors influencing transmission dynamics

4. Immune Response to Infections

• Overview of the immune system
• Innate immunity: barriers, phagocytes, inflammation
• Adaptive immunity: T-cells, B-cells, antibodies
• Immunological memory and vaccination relevance
• Immune evasion strategies by pathogens

5. Common Infectious Diseases

• Influenza
• Tuberculosis
• Malaria
• HIV/AIDS
• COVID-19
• Epidemiology, symptoms, treatment, and control measures for each

6. Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases

• Vaccination programs and herd immunity
• Hygiene and sanitation practices
• Quarantine and isolation measures
• Public health interventions (surveillance, contact tracing)
• Role of education and community engagement

7. Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

• Definition and mechanisms of AMR
• Causes of antimicrobial resistance
• Consequences on treatment and public health
• Responsible antibiotic use and stewardship
• Strategies to combat AMR (policy, research, global efforts)

8. Emerging Infectious Diseases

• Definition and examples
• Factors contributing to emergence (environmental, social, biological)
• Challenges in detection and response
• Public health preparedness and outbreak management

9. Global Health Implications of Infectious Diseases

• Economic impact of infectious diseases
• Social and political consequences
• International collaboration and organizations (WHO, CDC, etc.)
• Global health security and disease surveillance
• Future outlook and sustainable disease control efforts