The global emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), coupled with a weak “pipeline” of new antimicrobials means there is a frightening possibility that we and our children will live in a world without effective antimicrobial agents. This course introduces students to the ecology, epidemiology,and health policy aspects of resistance to antimicrobial agents against important bacterial and viral infectious agents, providing a framework for considering the important local, national and international scientific and policy questions. Students will critically analyze appropriate research and programmatic approaches that could be effective in addressing this major public health problem. Specific topics include the basic physiology/ecology and evolutionary biology of AMR; mechanisms of resistance in agents of diseases such as TB, HIV, malaria; epidemiology/behavioral and environmental factors promoting and ameliorating resistance and the ecology of resistance/antimicrobials in the food chain. Students will also explore the clinical and economics impacts of AMR and local, national and international health policies for surveillance, prevention and control.

Note that this information may change at any time. Please visit the Student Link for the most up-to-date course information.