In the footsteps of Zika… approaching the unknown from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introducing Zika virus, its vectors and its hosts

Module 1 introduces Zika virus as a whole. In this module you will increase your knowledge about the virus, its life cycle, its possible mutation, and its transmission patterns through different vectors and hosts (mosquitoes and human beings). You will learn also about its discovery and the possible origin of the current outbreak that started in Brazil and spread out through South America. Finally, we will discover together the strategy developed by this virus to develop and evolve to survive. Prof. Duane Gubler will start by talking about the Emergence of Zika virus and its different hosts and vectors, followed by Dr. Anna-Bella Failloux who will make you discover the cycle of Zika virus and its vectors, all travelling together. Finally, Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove will close this module by covering the sexual transmission of Zika virus and its persistency in body fluids.

Following the tracks of Zika virus

Module 2 relates how Zika virus left the remote African forests towards new destinations across the world partly by globalization and climate change. In this module you will increase your knowledge about the developing of a “love story” with human beings through globalisation. You will also learn how shifts in precipitation levels and temperature caused by climate change, and notably el Niño and la Niña phenomenons, may result into increased survival and/or migration of the virus through vectors into previously non-endemic geographic areas outside the tropical areas. You will also get better knowledge in the characteristics of the recent Zika outbreak in Brazil by local specialists. Dr. Frédéric Simard will start with the relationship between globalization and increased mosquito preference for humans. Then Joint Prof. Aline Philibert and Prof. Antoine Flahault will show you how climate changes can be indirectly and/or directly related to the transmission of Aedes and then Zika virus. Finally, Prof. Aluisio Cotrim Segurado and Prof. Paolo Zanotto of the University of São Paulo will describe the emergence of the outbreak as well as risks and challenges associated with.

Prevention and control

Module 3 presents the different types of vector prevention and control. You will get knowledge on the history of vector control and the lessons we have learnt over time. You will also be taught about large-scale control programmes that are now taking place to eradicate mosquitoes in many parts of the world. Beside the common use of insecticides you will explore one new “ecological” technology based on a bacteria that live within the mosquito Aedes. Prof. James Webb will start by talking about the history of vector control and eradication over time. Then, Dr. Frédéric Simard will explain who should be targeted first to prevent vector and virus transmission. You will explore with Prof. John Vontas the molecular analysis of insecticide resistance in major mosquito vectors from mechanisms to resistance management. Finally, Prof. Scott O’Neill will explain you the new and ecofriendly technology of vector control with the Wolbachia bacteria.

Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment

This module addresses symptoms, diagnosis and treatment regarding Zika infection. You will discover the challenges related to the two main types of diagnoses, clinical and biochemical (molecular or serological) diagnoses. You will learn that most cases are asymptomatic cases and this causes an issue to forecast virus origin and its transmission to new areas. You will also learn that currently licenced vaccines or medicines to treat Zika are missing. For now, treatment consists of relieving pain, fever, and any other symptoms. Prof. Patrice Bourée will start by listing the known symptoms and diagnosis. You will learn with Prof. Laurent Kaiser about the paradox between the limitation in clinical investigation and the strong technology currently available. Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove will explain you the different types of diagnoses and their limitations. Prof. Ester Sabino will tell you the diagnostic challenges they experienced at the beginning of the Zika outbreak in Brazil. Finally, Dr. Paulo Lee Ho and Dr. In-Kyu Yoon will close the module by telling you how the race is on to develop a Zika vaccine.

Zika and neurological adverses effects

This module addresses what is known and what is unknown about the neurological adverse effects of Zika virus, especially based on observations and research studies carried out in French Polynesia and in Brazil. In this module you will gain knowledge about the association between Zika infection in mothers and microcephaly in foetus in Brazil as well as the increased Guillain-Barré Syndrome in adults during the Zika outbreak in French Polynesia in 2013-2014. Prof. Olivier Picone, gynecologist-obstetrician, will explain the mechanisms of Zika infection and its health consequences. Dr. Patricia Jungmann will present us the race against time to understand the increased of microcephaly cases in Northeastern Brazil at the beginning of the outbreak and how doctors and scientists worked hand in hand to find clues to better understand the phenomenon. You will learn how the fear of microcephaly is becoming a nightmare for pregnant Brazilian women or those who would like to fall pregnant with Prof. Aluisio Cotrim Segurado and Prof. Laura Rodrigues. Prof. Tom Solomon and Prof. Arnaud Fontanet will close the module with the neurological effects of Zika in adults, notably regarding the Guillain-Barré syndrome that recently occurred in many infected cases in French Polynesia.

Inequity in front of Zika exposure and outcomes

The module 6 presents the inequity existing between poor and wealthy communities in the fight against Zika virus in Brazil and South America. You will learn that decades of rapid and chaotic urbanization have left many impoverished areas without basic sanitation, putting the poor at far greater risk of contracting Zika and other mosquito-borne viruses. Aside from the dangers that come with the spread of this disease, you will learn how inequity is aggravated by difference of access to health care, socio-economical support, and limited reproductive rights in this region. Finally, the module will make you better understand the fact that women’s rights and reproductive issues in the South America landscape are highly controversial topics. You will also better understand how Zika virus is starting a legal revolution regarding abortion right, while it has always been largely illegal and seen as a taboo in many countries in South America. Dr. Serge Rabier will start by describing the anthropological perspective related to the health crisis of Zika in South America. You will learn with Prof. Helena Ribeiro the inequity regarding exposure to virus in favelas and elsewhere. Dr. Ester Sabino will talk about contraception and abortion challenges for women in Brazil. Finally, Dr. Flávia Bulegon Pilecco will close the module by telling us how Zika is fuelling a new debate over legal and safe abortion in South America.

How do deal with Zika: WHO and international health organizations' perspectives

The module 7 explains how the recent Zika outbreak, the cluster of microcephaly cases and neurological events occurring at the same time and place (mainly Brazil) resulted in a public health emergency of international concern. You will learn about the role and duties of international organizations and the fact that this is the first time the global scientific community commits to sharing data on Zika. You will be exposed by discussions related to the fact that WHO and other partners seek to learn from their failure regarding the Ebola crisis, after they were heavily criticised for their slow response. Prof. David Heymann will start by explaining how Zika became a public health emergency of international concern. Dr. Marie-Paule Kieny, Dr. Sylvie Briand and Dr. In-Kyu Yoon will debate for us on the roles and duties of international organizations to ensure that proportionate actions are taken and what lessons we learnt from the past outbreaks.

The Zika phenomenon through medias and economical & political challenges

In this module you will better understand how Zika virus has been controlled or uncontrolled by the medias in the era of social networks, and what could be the role of the medias regarding prevention and control of the Zika disease in South and Latin America.The module 8 reports how the Zika phenomenon has been hitting the headlines over the past months. You will learn that aside from the health risks it poses, Zika also affects economy and politics in South America. You will be exposed to the economic adverse effects of Zika on touristic hotspots in Latin America and on the coming Olympic games in Brazil. Dr. Paul Benkimoun will start by making a summary of what has been reported in headlines in the past few months. Dr. Jean-Yves Nau will make an analysis of the different ingredients the Zika phenomenon is constructed of in the news, such as health, politics and economy. Margaret Harris will tell us the importance of the transparency and the adequacy of the messages that should be disseminated to the public. Dr. Anneliese Depoux will let us know what are the raise of awareness via social networks. Finally, Dr. Josselin Thuilliez will close the module by debating on economical issues related to the Zika phenomenon.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Develops an understanding of the Zika virus and its transmission, including its vectors, hosts, and origins

Examines the spread of the Zika virus, including the role of globalization and climate change

Provides practical knowledge on vector prevention and control methods

Covers the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Zika virus infection

Explores the neurological adverse effects of Zika virus, including microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome

Highlights the inequity in exposure to and outcomes of Zika virus infection, particularly in poor and marginalized communities

Presents the perspectives of the World Health Organization and other international organizations on the Zika virus outbreak

Examines the role of media in shaping the public perception and response to the Zika virus outbreak

Taught by experts in virology, epidemiology, and global health from the University of Geneva, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Descartes, and Centre Virchow-Villermé

Offered in multiple languages (English, French, Portuguese, Spanish) to make it accessible to a global audience

Reviews summary

Introductory zika virus knowledge

Learners say that Zika Virus covers the history of the disease and epidemiological information about the infection. Students describe the course's videos as engaging, but warn of poor quality quizzes. Overall, students view the course as an effective introduction to the topic.

Engaging videos.

"The videos are very intesting, specially about the history of the disease and the epidemiological aspects of the infection."

Poor quality quizzes.

"The questions in the quizz are not very good and should be reviewed."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in In the footsteps of Zika… approaching the unknown with these activities:

Explore the Zika virus

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Familiarize yourself with the basics of Zika virus.

Browse courses on Zika Virus

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Watch the 'Zika Virus: What You Need to Know' video from the World Health Organization.
Read the 'Zika Virus' article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Explore the 'Zika Virus' website from the National Institutes of Health.

Review 'Z: The Virus That Changed the World' by Charles Calisher

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Take a deeper dive into the history and impact of Zika virus by reading one of the seminal works on the topic.

View Manson's Tropical Diseases: Expert Consult Basic on Amazon

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Read chapters 1-3 to gain an understanding of the history of Zika virus and its global spread
Read chapter 6 for a detailed overview of the clinical manifestations of Zika virus infection
Read chapter 8 to learn about the current state of Zika virus research and prevention efforts

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Career center

Learners who complete In the footsteps of Zika… approaching the unknown will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Medical Writer

As a Medical Writer, you will relay often-complex medical information in a way that is easy to understand for different audiences. You will need to be able to research, analyze, and accurately convey scientific information. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course is strongly related to the work you may do. It will help you to gain the knowledge and understanding of the Zika virus and related diseases that you need to write about these topics accurately and effectively.

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Epidemiologist

As an Epidemiologist, you will play a crucial role in investigating and preventing disease outbreaks. You will need to analyze and interpret data, evaluate risks, and develop strategies for prevention and control. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course can be very useful, as it will help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the Zika virus, its transmission, and its impact on public health.

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Public Health Nurse

As a Public Health Nurse, you will work to promote health and prevent disease in communities. You will need to assess health needs, develop and implement health programs, and provide education and counseling to individuals and families. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may help you develop some of the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the Zika virus, its transmission, and its impact on public health. You will also learn about public health nursing interventions that can be used to prevent and control the spread of Zika.

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Physician Assistant

As a Physician Assistant, you will work under the supervision of a physician to provide medical care to patients. You will need to be able to diagnose and treat illnesses, perform procedures, and provide patient education. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may help you develop some of the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the Zika virus, its transmission, and its impact on public health. You will also learn about the role of physician assistants in providing care to patients with Zika virus infection.

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Laboratory Technician

As a Laboratory Technician, you will conduct experiments, analyze data, and maintain laboratory equipment. You will need to be able to follow protocols, use laboratory equipment, and troubleshoot problems. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may help you develop some of the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the Zika virus, its transmission, and its impact on public health. You will also learn about the laboratory tests that are used to diagnose and monitor Zika virus infection.

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Health Educator

As a Health Educator, you will work to promote health and prevent disease in communities. You will need to develop and implement health education programs, provide information to the public, and advocate for healthy policies. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may help you develop some of the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field. You will learn about the Zika virus, its transmission, and its impact on public health. You will also learn about health education interventions that can be used to prevent and control the spread of Zika.

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Registered Nurse

As a Registered Nurse, you will provide care to patients in a variety of settings. You will need to be able to assess health needs, develop and implement care plans, and provide patient education. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of nurses in providing care to patients with Zika virus infection.

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Pharmacist

As a Pharmacist, you will dispense medications and provide information to patients about their medications. You will need to be able to understand and interpret prescriptions, counsel patients on medication use, and monitor for drug interactions. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of pharmacists in providing care to patients with Zika virus infection.

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Health Policy Analyst

As a Health Policy Analyst, you will research and analyze health policies and their impact on the population. You will need to be able to understand and interpret data, evaluate policies, and develop recommendations for policy changes. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of health policy analysts in developing and implementing policies to prevent and control the spread of Zika virus.

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Health Administrator

As a Health Administrator, you will manage and oversee the delivery of health care services. You will need to be able to plan and budget for health care programs, manage staff, and evaluate the quality of care. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of health administrators in developing and implementing policies to prevent and control the spread of Zika virus.

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Nonprofit Manager

As a Nonprofit Manager, you will lead and manage a nonprofit organization. You will need to be able to develop and implement programs, manage staff, and fundraising. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of nonprofit organizations in providing care and support to people affected by Zika virus and in advocating for policies to prevent and control the spread of the virus.

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Science Writer

As a Science Writer, you will communicate complex scientific information to a lay audience. You will need to be able to write clearly and concisely, and you will need to have a strong understanding of the scientific process. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the Zika virus and its impact on public health.

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Biostatistician

As a Biostatistician, you will use statistical methods to analyze data in the field of biology. You will need to be able to design and conduct studies, analyze data, and interpret results. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the role of biostatisticians in studying the Zika virus and its impact on public health.

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Virologist

As a Virologist, you will study viruses and their impact on human health. You will need to be able to conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret results. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the Zika virus and its impact on public health.

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Medical Researcher

As a Medical Researcher, you will conduct research to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. You will need to be able to design and conduct studies, analyze data, and interpret results. The In the Footsteps of Zika… Approaching the Unknown course may be useful in helping you learn about the Zika virus and its impact on public health.

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