Molecular Epidemiology

A.Y. 2019/2020
5
Max ECTS
36
Overall hours
SSD
VET/05
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to supply the basis of epidemiology and then the notions on molecular epidemiology. Students need this knowledge to apply at its best the different molecular techniques. The course aims also to complete the knowledge acquired in previous years on diffusive diseases.
Expected learning outcomes
Capability to apply proper epidemiological methods in the evaluation of molecular and conventional diagnostic tests
Capability to apply proper epidemiological methods in the design of experimental and osservational studies
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
The following topics will be addressed both from a theoretical and a practical point of view:
1. basics of epidemiology
2. evaluation of diagnostic tests
3. introduction to molecular epidemiology
4. theory and practice for the taxonomy and classification of pathogens in the biomolecular field
5. statistical models in molecular evolution
6. construction and analysis of phylogenetic trees
7. theory and practice for the design of experiments and for epidemiological investigations in the field of diffusive pathologies and zoonoses.
8. theory and practice for the epidemiological analysis of data obtained from experimental and field studies in the field of diffusive pathologies and zoonoses.
Prerequisites for admission
The student should have acquired the basics of microbiology, immunology and, if applicable, infectious diseases from previous courses.
Teaching methods
The course includes a theoretical part in which the basic information relating to epidemiology and then that of molecular epidemiology are presented.
Practical seminars will focus on the discussion above all of diagnostic problems during which the student will actively participate in the discussion.
Teaching Resources
Thrusfield - Veterinary Epidemiology - Blackwell 2005
Riley - Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases -ASM Press 2004
Avise - Molecular Markers, Natural History and Evolution - Sinauer 2004
Assessment methods and Criteria
Learning during the course will be verified through the presentation of cases of disease outbreaks in which students will be called to actively participate in their discussion.
Formally, the learning will be assessed by an oral exam (8 appeals, Jan, Feb, Apr, Jun, Jul, Sep, Oct, Nov).
VET/05 - INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS - University credits: 5
Practicals: 12 hours
Lessons: 24 hours
Shifts: