OAFP 6170 - Pandemics: origins and response

The aim of the course is to describe the emergence of pandemics in human population. It will address 1) the environmental, biological, and behavioral factors associated with the crossing of the species barrier by infectious agents; 2) the demographic and social factors associated with the spread of infectious agents after they have emerged; 3) the counter-measures deployed at local, national, and international level for slowing down pandemics; and 4) the plans for improved anticipation and surveillance of future pandemics.

The course will be illustrated by examples taken from past pandemics like flu, cholera and AIDS, before focusing on the description and analyses of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There are no pre-requesites for this course.

The course is meant to be highly interactive and will be taught by several guest speakers who have been involved in the management and response to pandemics at various levels: international organisations, non-governmental organisations, ministry of health, local administration, media, and research institutions.

The course will be evaluated based on participation and preparation of the sessions - presentation of the guestspeakers and preparation of questions - (35%) and a final exam (65%). The final exam will consist of a three to five pages paper at the end of the semester. Each student will identify his/her own topic, with advice from the lecturers.

Students are expected to read the required reading. The slides of each lecture will be made available before each class.