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Dabney P. Evans, PhD, MPH and Carlos del Rio, MD

Learn about the evolving Ebola epidemic and its various aspects including disease prevention, management and treatment, response to the epidemic, ethical considerations, and the post-Ebola global health landscape.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Ebola
Upon completion of this module, learners will be able to: Review the state of global public health prior to the 2014 Ebola epidemic. Explore the etiology of Ebola and other viral hematic fevers. Explain the epidemiology of the 2014 Ebola epidemic and why this outbreak is different than previous ones. Explain why tropical forest-associated zoonotic pathogens like Ebola are emerging at an ever-increasing rate. Recognize drivers of disease spillover from wildlife to people and discuss how to mitigate disease spillover.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides a comprehensive overview of the 2014 Ebola epidemic, its causes, and the global response
Taught by recognized experts in the field of infectious diseases, including Dabney P. Evans and Carlos del Rio
Covers a wide range of topics relevant to the Ebola epidemic, including epidemiology, patient care, and ethical considerations
Examines the challenges and best practices in managing potential and diagnosed Ebola patients
Explores the impact of the Ebola epidemic on global health systems and the need for resilient health systems
While the course is no longer relevant to the current Ebola epidemic, it provides valuable insights for understanding future outbreaks

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Reviews summary

Analysis of ebola 2014 epidemic

According to learners, this course provides a comprehensive and valuable overview of the 2014 Ebola epidemic. Students highlight the knowledgeable instructors from Emory University and the well-structured content covering etiology, patient care, prevention, ethics, and global health impact. While it offers an excellent historical perspective and crucial context for understanding outbreak response, some learners note that the information on current treatments and vaccines may be outdated, focusing heavily on the 2014 context without significant updates on newer developments. Despite this, many find it highly relevant for understanding past epidemics and broader public health principles.
Excellent for understanding 2014 event.
"A good historical perspective on the 2014 Ebola epidemic."
"Even years later, this course provides crucial context for understanding viral epidemics."
"While it covers the 2014 outbreak, it doesn't reflect current knowledge on vaccines or newer treatment modalities. Needs a significant update to be relevant today *unless* viewed purely as a historical case study."
"For understanding the event itself, it's great."
Taught by knowledgeable faculty.
"Instructors were knowledgeable."
"Excellent speakers."
"The course is taught by leading experts in the field from Emory University, which really added credibility and depth."
Provides a broad understanding of the topic.
"Excellent overview of the 2014 outbreak and its impact. Covered prevention and ethics well."
"Fantastic deep dive into the Ebola crisis. Comprehensive syllabus, covering everything from etiology to ethical dilemmas."
"Solid foundational course. Lectures were clear, especially on epidemiology and patient care. The section on global health changes was insightful."
Information on treatments may be dated.
"Content feels very outdated... doesn't reflect current knowledge on vaccines or newer treatment modalities. Needs a significant update..."
"Some parts felt a little dated, but the core principles are sound."
"It's focused heavily on the 2014 outbreak, so might not cover later developments in treatment or outbreaks."
"As others mentioned, some information on *current* treatments/vaccines isn't there..."

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 Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic with these activities:
Practice identifying the symptoms of Ebola
Practice identifying the symptoms of Ebola to enhance your diagnostic skills.
Browse courses on Ebola
Show steps
  • Review the symptoms of Ebola.
  • Take a quiz or test to assess your knowledge of Ebola symptoms.
  • Discuss the symptoms of Ebola with a medical professional or colleague.
Volunteer at a local hospital or health center
Volunteer at a local hospital or health center to gain practical experience and contribute to the fight against Ebola.
Browse courses on Ebola
Show steps
  • Contact local hospitals or health centers to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Complete any necessary training or orientation.
  • Volunteer in a role that aligns with your interests and skills.
Read 'The Hot Zone' by Richard Preston
Read 'The Hot Zone' by Richard Preston to explore the history and epidemiology of Ebola.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book 'The Hot Zone' by Richard Preston.
  • Read the book and take notes on the key concepts.
  • Discuss the book with a friend or colleague.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Join a study group or discussion forum focused on Ebola
Join a study group or discussion forum to connect with other learners and share insights.
Browse courses on Ebola
Show steps
  • Identify a study group or discussion forum focused on Ebola.
  • Join the group and actively participate in discussions.
  • Share your knowledge and insights with other members.
Learn about the latest advances in Ebola vaccine development
Learn about the latest advances in Ebola vaccine development to stay updated on current research.
Browse courses on Ebola
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources of information on Ebola vaccine development.
  • Review articles, watch videos, or attend webinars on the topic.
  • Discuss the latest advances with a medical professional or colleague.
Create a disaster preparedness toolkit
Start a project to create a disaster preparedness toolkit and create a plan for your own community.
Browse courses on Ebola
Show steps
  • Research the types of supplies needed for a disaster preparedness kit.
  • Gather the supplies and assemble the toolkit.
  • Create a disaster preparedness plan for your home or community.
Develop a policy brief on Ebola preparedness for your local community
Develop a policy brief on Ebola preparedness to inform decision-makers in your local community.
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Show steps
  • Research best practices for Ebola preparedness.
  • Identify key stakeholders and target audience for your policy brief.
  • Write a concise and informative policy brief that outlines the key issues and recommendations.
Write a blog post or article about a recent Ebola outbreak
Write a blog post or article about a recent Ebola outbreak to synthesize your knowledge.
Browse courses on Epidemiology
Show steps
  • Choose a recent Ebola outbreak to focus on.
  • Research the outbreak and gather information from credible sources.
  • Write a blog post or article that includes an overview of the outbreak, its impact, and any lessons learned.

Career center

Learners who complete Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the causes and spread of diseases in populations. They collect and analyze data to identify risk factors and develop strategies to prevent and control disease outbreaks. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be invaluable to epidemiologists working to prevent and control future outbreaks of Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Infectious Disease Physician
Infectious disease physicians diagnose, treat, and prevent infectious diseases. They have a deep understanding of the causes, transmission, and treatment of infectious diseases, including Ebola virus disease. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its clinical presentation, and the latest treatment options. This knowledge would be essential for infectious disease physicians working to care for patients with Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Public Health Administrator
Public health administrators develop and implement public health programs to prevent and control disease outbreaks. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and healthcare providers, to ensure that the public is protected from health threats. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for public health administrators working to develop and implement public health programs to prevent and control future outbreaks of Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Virologist
Virologists study viruses, their structure, function, and evolution. They play a key role in developing vaccines and treatments for viral diseases, including Ebola virus disease. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its biology, and the latest research on vaccine and treatment development. This knowledge would be essential for virologists working to develop new ways to prevent and treat Ebola and other emerging viral diseases.
Laboratory Scientist
Laboratory scientists perform tests and analyze data to diagnose and monitor diseases. They work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and research laboratories. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its laboratory diagnosis, and the latest research on vaccine and treatment development. This knowledge would be essential for laboratory scientists working to diagnose and monitor Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Nurse
Nurses provide direct patient care to individuals with a variety of health conditions, including Ebola virus disease. They play a vital role in preventing the spread of infection and providing supportive care to patients. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its clinical presentation, and the latest treatment options. This knowledge would be essential for nurses working to care for patients with Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Physician Assistant
Physician assistants provide a wide range of medical services to patients under the supervision of a physician. They can diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and perform minor surgeries. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its clinical presentation, and the latest treatment options. This knowledge would be essential for physician assistants working to care for patients with Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Pharmacist
Pharmacists dispense medications to patients and provide advice on their use. They also work with physicians to develop medication plans and monitor patients' progress. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its clinical presentation, and the latest treatment options. This knowledge would be essential for pharmacists working to dispense medications and provide advice to patients with Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Health Educator
Health educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They work with a variety of audiences, including individuals, families, and communities. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for health educators working to develop and implement educational programs to prevent the spread of Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Community Health Worker
Community health workers provide basic health care and education to individuals and families in their communities. They work with a variety of populations, including low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for community health workers working to provide basic health care and education to communities affected by Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.
Veterinarian
Veterinarians diagnose and treat diseases in animals. They also work to prevent the spread of animal diseases to humans. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for veterinarians working to diagnose and treat Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases in animals.
Zoologist
Zoologists study the behavior, physiology, and evolution of animals. They work in a variety of settings, including universities, research institutions, and zoos. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for zoologists working to study the behavior and evolution of animals that carry the Ebola virus.
Ecologist
Ecologists study the interactions between organisms and their environment. They work to understand how ecosystems function and how human activities affect the environment. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for ecologists working to understand how the Ebola virus affects ecosystems and how human activities may contribute to the spread of the virus.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. They work to develop solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution and climate change. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for environmental scientists working to understand how the Ebola virus affects the environment and how human activities may contribute to the spread of the virus.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts develop and evaluate public policies. They work with policymakers to develop and implement policies that address a variety of issues, including health care, education, and environmental protection. The course "Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic" provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its epidemiology, and the response to the 2014 outbreak. This knowledge would be essential for policy analysts working to develop and evaluate policies to prevent and control Ebola and other emerging infectious diseases.

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 Ebola Virus Disease: An Evolving Epidemic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its transmission, and management for healthcare workers. It offers clear and concise information on the virus, its symptoms, and the measures that can be taken to prevent and control its spread.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Ebola virus disease, including its history, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment. It valuable resource for healthcare professionals, public health officials, and researchers working in the field of Ebola virus disease.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the emergence of novel viruses from animals to humans. It offers a unique perspective on the factors that drive the spread of viruses and the implications for public health.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the emergence of new infectious diseases and the challenges they pose to public health. It offers a unique perspective on the factors that drive the spread of diseases and the implications for global health.
Provides a gripping account of the 1989 Ebola outbreak in Reston, Virginia. It offers a unique perspective on the challenges of containing and controlling an outbreak of a deadly virus.
Provides a cultural history of the Ebola virus, exploring its origins, spread, and impact on human societies. It offers a unique perspective on the virus, combining scientific research with personal accounts from survivors and healthcare workers.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Ebola virus, its history, and its impact on human societies. It offers a unique perspective on the virus, combining scientific research with personal accounts from survivors and healthcare workers.

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