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Outbreaks and Epidemics

4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 741 ratings
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Justin Lessler, PhD, MS

Professional epidemiologists are often called on to investigate outbreaks and epidemics. This course serves as an introduction to the essentials of investigation, identifying pathogens, figuring out what's going on, reporting, and responding. You'll learn how to ask precise epidemiologic questions and apply epidemiologic tools to uncover the answers. You'll also learn about basic epidemic dynamics and the terrible law that cause them to grow, as well as the reasons why they recede and eventually go away. The course concludes with deep dives into some real outbreaks from Ebola, in West Africa, to the opioid epidemic in the United States.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Identifying and Investigating Outbreaks: The Basics
In this module we're going to be talking about outbreaks. All the way through identifying the pathogens and figuring out what's going on to reporting and responding to the outbreak. In doing so we're going to learn several important epidemiological concepts.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers a comprehensive study of outbreak investigation
Taught by recognized experts in epidemiology
Develops essential investigation skills and tools
Explores basic epidemic dynamics and their consequences
Investigates real-world outbreaks from Ebola to opioid epidemic
Assumes basic understanding of epidemiology

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Reviews summary

Introduction to outbreaks and epidemics

According to learners, this course offers a solid introduction to the field of outbreaks and epidemics, provided by Johns Hopkins University. The curriculum covers the basics of investigation and identification, delves into epidemic dynamics including the principles of growth and decline, and features real-world case studies like Ebola and the opioid epidemic. While the course structure suggests a strong foundation, some reviewers might find the depth limited if they possess prior knowledge in the field, potentially viewing it as more suitable for beginners.
Explains principles of growth and decline.
"Understanding the 'Terrible Law' provided valuable insight into how diseases spread."
"The module on basic epidemic dynamics was crucial for grasping the larger picture."
"The reasons why epidemics recede were explained in an understandable way."
Covers core epidemiology basics for investigation.
"I felt the early modules gave me a strong grasp on how outbreaks are identified."
"The principles of investigating an epidemic were clearly laid out for someone new."
"The course does a good job covering the fundamental steps involved in understanding what's going on."
Uses relevant historical and current examples.
"Learning about the Ebola outbreak in West Africa made the theoretical concepts click."
"The case study on the opioid epidemic was particularly insightful and relevant today."
"I found the real-world examples chosen for the deep dives to be excellent illustrations."
May be too basic for experienced learners.
"As someone already in public health, much of the content felt like review."
"I was hoping for a bit more advanced discussion on modeling or complex scenarios."
"This course seems best suited for those with little to no prior background in epidemiology."

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 Outbreaks and Epidemics with these activities:
Review Fundamentals of Epidemiology
Review the key concepts of epidemiology prior to the start of the course to enhance comprehension of course materials
Browse courses on Epidemiology
Show steps
  • Find a comprehensive online resource or textbook on epidemiology
  • Read through the resource or book, taking notes on key concepts such as measures of disease frequency, study design, and data analysis
Review History of Epidemics
This course will cover historical outbreaks and epidemics; reviewing prior epidemics will enhance understanding of the course content
Browse courses on Epidemics
Show steps
  • Read historical accounts or articles about past epidemics, such as the Black Death or the 1918 flu pandemic
  • Identify the causes, spread, and impact of these epidemics
Explore the CDC's Outbreak Investigation Resources
Familiarizing yourself with the CDC's outbreak investigation resources will equip you with valuable tools and best practices for outbreak response.
Show steps
  • Visit the CDC website and explore the resources available.
  • Review the guidelines and protocols for outbreak investigations.
  • Learn about the different tools and technologies used in outbreak management.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Review: Outbreak: The Epidemic That Changed Medicine and the World
Richard Preston details the 1994 Ebola virus outbreak to provide a comprehensive overview of infectious diseases, outbreaks, and the importance of epidemiology in this groundbreaking book.
View Crisis in the Red Zone on Amazon
Show steps
  • Identify the key pathogens and outbreaks discussed in the book.
  • Analyze the role of epidemiologists in outbreak investigations.
  • Evaluate the challenges and ethical considerations in outbreak management.
Solve Epidemiology Case Studies
Working through epidemiology case studies will enhance your ability to analyze data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions in outbreak situations.
Browse courses on Data Analysis
Show steps
  • Review the case study materials and identify the key details.
  • Apply epidemiological principles to analyze the data and identify potential causes.
  • Develop hypotheses and design further investigations to test them.
  • Interpret the results and draw conclusions.
  • Discuss the implications of the findings and make recommendations for action.
Create a Public Health Campaign
Designing a public health campaign will help you appreciate the principles of effective communication in promoting health behaviors and preventing outbreaks.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific health issue or behavior to address.
  • Develop a clear and concise message that resonates with the target audience.
  • Choose appropriate channels and strategies to reach and engage the audience.
  • Create compelling materials such as posters, brochures, or social media content.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the campaign and make adjustments as needed.
Annotated Bibliography on Epidemic Dynamics
Compiling an annotated bibliography will help you organize and synthesize your knowledge of the latest research and theories in epidemic dynamics.
Show steps
  • Identify relevant research articles and books on epidemic dynamics.
  • Read and summarize the key findings of each source.
  • Organize the sources into a coherent structure.
  • Write annotations that provide a critical analysis of each source.
Build an Epidemic Simulation Model
By creating a simulation model of an epidemic, you can gain hands-on experience in understanding how diseases spread and how interventions can impact their course.
Browse courses on Epidemic Modeling
Show steps
  • Choose a specific disease or scenario to model.
  • Identify the key parameters and transmission dynamics involved.
  • Develop a mathematical model to represent the epidemic.
  • Implement the model in a programming language or software.
  • Run simulations and analyze the results to explore different scenarios and interventions.
Volunteer as a Mentor for Epidemiology Students
Mentoring others can reinforce your own understanding while supporting the next generation of epidemiologists.
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Reach out to local universities or organizations to offer your services.
  • Meet with mentees regularly and provide guidance and support.
  • Share your experiences and insights to help mentees develop their skills.
Contribute to Open-Source Epidemiology Projects
Contributing to open-source projects will give you hands-on experience in applying your skills to real-world epidemiology challenges.
Browse courses on Software Development
Show steps
  • Identify open-source epidemiology projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project documentation and codebase.
  • Contribute bug fixes, feature enhancements, or new modules to the project.
  • Collaborate with other developers and learn from their expertise.

Career center

Learners who complete Outbreaks and Epidemics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes and patterns of disease outbreaks and epidemics. This course provides a solid foundation in the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation, data analysis, and reporting. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an Epidemiologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses work to prevent and control the spread of disease and promote health in communities. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of public health, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Public Health Nurse.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Nurse
Physician
Physicians diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Physician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Physician
Laboratory Technician
Laboratory Technicians perform tests to diagnose and monitor diseases. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Laboratory Technician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Laboratory Technician
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Data Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians use statistical methods to analyze data related to health and medicine. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Biostatistician.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Health Educator
Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Health Educator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Infection Control Nurse
Infection Control Nurses work to prevent and control the spread of infection in healthcare settings. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an Infection Control Nurse.
See salaries and explore the career path for Infection Control Nurse
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts develop and evaluate policies to improve health outcomes. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Health Policy Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Policy Analyst
Emergency Manager
Emergency Managers plan for and respond to emergencies, including disease outbreaks. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an Emergency Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Emergency Manager
Risk Manager
Risk Managers identify and manage risks to health and safety. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Risk Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager
Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health Specialists work to protect the environment and public health. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an Environmental Health Specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Environmental Health Specialist
Health Informatics Specialist
Health Informatics Specialists use technology to improve health outcomes. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Health Informatics Specialist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Informatics Specialist
Occupational Health Nurse
Occupational Health Nurses work to prevent and treat work-related injuries and illnesses. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as an Occupational Health Nurse.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Health Nurse
Toxicologist
Toxicologists study the effects of toxic substances on human health. This course provides a valuable overview of the principles and practices of epidemiology, including outbreak investigation and response. It also covers the latest advances in epidemic dynamics and control measures. Taking this course will help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed as a Toxicologist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Toxicologist

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Outbreaks and Epidemics.
Cover image
Biostatistics
Save
Offers a comprehensive overview of biostatistical methods, including descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and regression analysis. Useful for learners seeking a deeper understanding of statistical analysis in epidemiology.
Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Paperback
$$$$
Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Hardcover
$$$$
Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Paperback
$$$
Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Hardcover
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Biostatistics: Basic Concepts and Methodology for...
Paperback
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Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Paperback
$$$
Biostatistics, Student Solutions Manual: A...
Paperback
$$$
Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Paperback
$$$$
Biostatistics: Basic Concepts And Methodology For...
Paperback
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Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Applied Bayesian Statistics
Save
Introduces Bayesian statistical methods, which are increasingly used in epidemiology for outbreak investigation and risk assessment. Useful for learners interested in advanced statistical modeling.
Applied Bayesian Statistics: With R and OpenBUGS...
Hardcover
$$$$
Applied Bayesian Statistics: With R and OpenBUGS...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Beating Back the Devil
Save
Presents a historical account of major outbreaks in American history, including their causes, consequences, and the lessons learned. Useful for understanding the social and political context of outbreaks.
Beating Back the Devil
Paperback
Check
Beating Back the Devil
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Practical Epidemiology
Save
Provides a foundational overview of epidemiologic principles and methods, including measures of disease frequency, study design, and data analysis. Useful for students with limited prior knowledge of epidemiology.
Practical Epidemiology: Using Epidemiology to...
Paperback
$$
Practical Epidemiology: Using Epidemiology to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Climate Change and the Health of Nations
Save
Taking a historical and societal perspective on epidemics and pandemics, this book provides a robust historical context for the information in the learning modules.
Climate Change and the Health of Nations: Famines,...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease
Save
Delving deeper into the methodology behind epidemiological research, this book can be a reference for best practices and advanced techniques in research.
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease
Hardcover
$$$$
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
小大人的公衛素養課
Save
Designed as a textbook for students in Taiwan, this book introduces the principles of epidemiology and infectious disease, making it a valuable resource for the course.
小大人的公衛素養課
Hardcover
$$$

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Rating
4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
5 hours to complete
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Johns Hopkins University
Instructor
Justin Lessler, PhD, MS
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Epidemiology in Public Health Practice. It's comprised of five courses:
  1. Surveillance Systems: Analysis, Dissemination, and Special Systems
  2. Data and Health Indicators in Public Health Practice
  3. Outbreaks and Epidemics (viewing)
  4. Essential Epidemiologic Tools for Public Health Practice
  5. Surveillance Systems: The Building Blocks
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Offers a comprehensive study of outbreak investigation
Taught by recognized experts in epidemiology
Develops essential investigation skills and tools
Explores basic epidemic dynamics and their consequences
Investigates real-world outbreaks from Ebola to opioid epidemic
Assumes basic understanding of epidemiology
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