Public Health Microbiology and Parasitology/Entomology

At the end of the course, students should be able to: 1. differentiate between major groups of micro-organisms; 2. identify and evaluate infections of public health significance caused by bacteria, virus, fungi; 3. identify and evaluate infections of public health significance caused by parasites; 4. describe and explain the pathogenesis of microbial and parasitic infections; 5. be able to explain the process of transmission of microbial and parasitic infections; 6. identify major reservoirs of parasites and microorganism and their roles in transmission; 7. identify the roles of vectors in transmission of microbial and parasitic diseases; 8. describe the life cycle of major insect vectors of parasitic disease and their effective mode of control;and 9. demonstrate knowledge for the control and intervention strategies of microbial and parasitic diseases.

The course covers the study of the characteristics and identification of microorganisms particularly different species of bacteria and parasites. Emphasis is placed on the specific microbial and parasitic agents of communicable and parasitic diseases, most notably Tuberculosis, the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) such as Malaria, Schistosomiasis, Onchorcerciasis, Dracontiasis and Trypanosomiasis prevalent in the community. Environmental factors favouring their reservoir and intermediate hosts, communicability as well as salient features for their control will be highlighted. Current issues regarding the control intervention, and prevention strategies of these infections and infestations are discussed. Additional emphasis will be placed on the identification of microbial pollutants and contaminants in food and water sources. Laboratory exercises will be used extensively to identify the organisms and visits will be made to water treatment sites, food storage, food handling/preparation points to identify sources of contaminants thereby providing the basis for personal and community health stance. Studies on Insects of medical importance, such as Mosquito, Tsetse fly, Black fly, ticks, and mites their life cycle and control should also be discussed. Vectors, Biological vectors, mechanical vectors, and zoonosis should be discussed.