This course introduces learners to a variety of infectious diseases using a patient-centered, story-based approach. Through illustrated, short videos, learners will follow the course of each patient’s illness, from initial presentation to resolution. Integrating the relevant microbiology, pathophysiology and immunology, this course aims to engage and entice the learner towards future studies in microbiology, immunology and infectious diseases.
Stories of Infection
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.9
(1,785 reviews)
Intermediate level
Some related experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 11 hours
Learn at your own pace
99%
Most learners liked this course
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Assessments
32 assignments
Taught in English
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There are 6 modules in this course
In Module One, we will begin to hear how some microbes cause disease in humans. We will familiarize ourselves with the human immune system, including the cells that make up the innate and adaptive immune responses. We will also examine the relationship between socioeconomic conditions and infectious disease as we explore the story of one person’s experience with cholera. By the end of this module, learners will be more familiar with how the host immune defenses actively defend the body against disease-causing microbes. After each lecture, there is a glossary of terms pertaining to that lecture, which will assist learners in answering the quiz questions. Learners can also find a glossary of all terms from the course, listed alphabetically, under the "Resources" tab.
What's included
3 videos3 readings3 assignments
In Module Two, we will explore six infectious diseases caused by bacteria. We will see how factors like agricultural practices, prior infections, smoking history, and financial situations can play a role in infectious disease. By the end of this module, learners will be able to interpret the clinical presentation of these six infectious diseases and describe the relevant microbiology, pathophysiology, and immunology.
What's included
6 videos6 readings6 assignments
In Module Three, we will explore seven additional cases of infectious disease involving bacteria. We will see how a timely and accurate diagnosis can be vital for a patient's survival. By the end of this module, learners will be able to interpret the clinical presentation of these seven infectious diseases and describe the relevant microbiology, pathophysiology, and immunology.
What's included
7 videos7 readings7 assignments
In Module Four, we will explore five cases of infectious disease involving viruses. We will see how factors like social stigma, prior infections, access to medications, and family history can play a role in infectious disease. We will also examine the link between viruses and some cancers. By the end of this module, learners will be able to interpret the clinical presentation of these five infectious diseases and describe the relevant microbiology, pathophysiology, and immunology.
What's included
5 videos5 readings5 assignments
In Module Five, we will explore five additional infectious diseases caused by viruses. We will also apply our knowledge of the immune system to explore the use of vaccines, and understand the history of the MMR vaccine. By the end of this module, learners will be able to interpret the clinical presentation of these five infectious diseases and describe the relevant microbiology, pathophysiology, and immunology.
What's included
5 videos5 readings5 assignments
In Module Six, we will explore six cases of infectious disease caused by mites, protozoa, tapeworms, fungi, and tick-borne bacteria. We will also examine how arthropods like mosquitos and ticks can spread disease. While most of these diseases are caused by infectious pathogens other than viruses and bacteria, learners will be able to apply their knowledge of immunology and microbiology to understand and interpret the clinical presentation of these six infectious diseases.
What's included
6 videos6 readings6 assignments
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.9 (409 ratings)
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Public Health
University of Colorado Boulder
MedCerts
University of Minnesota
Wesleyan University
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Learner reviews
4.9
1,785 reviews
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Showing 3 of 1785
PG
5
Reviewed on Sep 1, 2019
It was a vert interesting and highly informative course from the instructors from the Standford. I have learnt a lot about various diseases, and their epidemiology. Thank you.
JG
5
Reviewed on Dec 12, 2017
Very informative course! I didn't know Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever existed until I took this course. Although it would make more sense if more diseases were covered like scarlet fever, asthma etc.
MH
5
Reviewed on Sep 24, 2022
it was a great challenge to learn about disease that cause by micro organisms all over the world.
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Frequently asked questions
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