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Reflections from 40 Years Fighting International Epidemics

Daniel R. Lucey

Reflections on patients, policies, pan-epidemics, prose and medical humanities from a 40-year career fighting epidemics around the world by an infectious disease public health physician. Examples include HIV/AIDS, Anthrax, SARS, MERS, H5N1 and H1N1 influenza, Nipah, Ebola (with MSF 2014), Zika, Plague (with WHO 2017) and COVID-19. Working side-by-side with international colleagues to provide hands-on patient care and to share stories is an expression of medical humanities.

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Reflections on patients, policies, pan-epidemics, prose and medical humanities from a 40-year career fighting epidemics around the world by an infectious disease public health physician. Examples include HIV/AIDS, Anthrax, SARS, MERS, H5N1 and H1N1 influenza, Nipah, Ebola (with MSF 2014), Zika, Plague (with WHO 2017) and COVID-19. Working side-by-side with international colleagues to provide hands-on patient care and to share stories is an expression of medical humanities.

Dr. Lucey is the originator of the Smithsonian Museum Exhibit on Epidemics 2018-2022, an advocate of One Health, and author of 170 blogs on COVID and other new epidemics since January 2020 on the Science Speaks website of the Infectious Disease Society of America. One best career lesson is to “Anticipate, Recognize, Act” because “What’s next is already here, we just haven’t recognized it”.

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Syllabus

Course Orientation
​Reflections on patients, policies, pan-epidemics, prose and medical humanities from a 40-year career fighting epidemics around the world by an infectious disease public health physician. Examples include HIV/AIDS, Anthrax, SARS, MERS, H5N1 and H1N1 influenza, Nipah, Ebola (with MSF 2014), Zika, Plague (with WHO 2017) and COVID-19. Working side-by-side with international colleagues to provide hands-on patient care and to share stories is an expression of medical humanities. Dr. Lucey is the originator of the Smithsonian Museum Exhibit on Epidemics 2018-2022, an advocate of One Health, and author of 170 blogs on COVID and other new epidemics since January 2020 on the Science Speaks website of the Infectious Disease Society of America. One best career lesson is to “Anticipate, Recognize, Act” because “What’s next is already here, we just haven’t recognized it”.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Addresses real-world applications of medical humanities in infectious disease settings
Focuses on practical hands-on experience in epidemic management
Incorporates the latest scientific research and best practices
Provides insights from a seasoned professional with extensive fieldwork experience
Emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in combating epidemics
Requires prior knowledge and experience in infectious disease management

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Reflections on global epidemics from an expert

According to students, "Reflections from 40 Years Fighting International Epidemics" is an incredibly rich and profound course, primarily due to the unparalleled insights and personal anecdotes shared by Dr. Lucey, a highly experienced public health physician. Learners consistently praise his ability to make complex topics accessible and deeply human, highlighting the powerful frameworks like "Anticipate, Recognize, Act" and "What's Next Is Already Here." While many appreciate the unique blend of science, history, and medical humanities, some note the course is more philosophical and reflective than a technical deep dive, which might give pause to those seeking concrete epidemiological skills. Overall, it provides an inspiring and relevant perspective on global health.
Generally engaging, though some parts might feel slow.
"Sometimes the pace felt a little slow, as it's more reflective than action-oriented..."
"While the lectures were engaging, I sometimes wished for more supplementary readings or resources..."
"It felt more like listening to a series of interviews or memoirs than a structured educational program."
Unique emphasis on the human dimension of epidemics.
"The medical humanities aspect was surprisingly enriching."
"The emphasis on medical humanities adds a lot."
"The medical humanities part was interesting but less relevant to my professional development."
Key concepts like "Anticipate, Recognize, Act" are valuable.
"The section on 'Anticipate, Recognize, Act' really hit home."
"The 'Anticipate, Recognize, Act' framework is incredibly valuable."
"The discussion on the 'What's next is already here' concept – a powerful takeaway."
Personal stories make complex public health topics accessible.
"The personal anecdotes from Dr. Lucey make the heavy topics accessible and memorable."
"I appreciated the balance between personal anecdotes and broader public health concepts."
"It's not just a course; it's a profound reflection on global health crises."
Course offers profound insights from a seasoned expert.
"What an honor to learn from Dr. Lucey! His decades of experience shine through every module."
"Absolutely incredible. Dr. Lucey is a master storyteller, weaving in personal experiences with critical public health lessons."
"This course offers a unique perspective from someone who has literally been on the front lines for decades."
More philosophical reflections than technical skill development.
"It's less about technical epidemiology and more about the philosophy and real-world challenges."
"I felt the course lacked a clear structure for learning objectives beyond personal reflections."
"It's inspiring but doesn't offer much in terms of new skills. I was hoping for more actionable insights for public health policy."
"For an advanced epidemiologist, it might be too general, but for others, it's perfect."

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 Reflections from 40 Years Fighting International Epidemics with these activities:
Review previous course content
Refresh your memory on key concepts and ideas from previous courses in infectious disease and public health to prepare for this course.
Browse courses on Infectious Disease
Show steps
  • Go over your notes and textbooks from previous courses.
  • Review any relevant articles or research papers you have read.
  • Take practice quizzes or tests to assess your knowledge.
Read "Spillover: Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic" by David Quammen
This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history, science, and societal implications of pandemics, including the potential role of animal reservoirs.
View Contagio: La evolución de las pandemias /... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly and take notes.
  • Identify key concepts and ideas.
  • Discuss the book with classmates or colleagues.
Attend a guest lecture or webinar
Guest lectures and webinars provide an opportunity to hear from experts in the field and engage in discussions on current topics.
Browse courses on Pandemic Preparedness
Show steps
  • Research upcoming guest lectures or webinars.
  • Attend the event and take notes.
  • Follow up with the speaker or other attendees.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Complete online tutorials on infectious disease modeling
Online tutorials provide a structured approach to learning about the mathematical and computational tools used in infectious disease modeling.
Browse courses on Mathematical Modeling
Show steps
  • Find reputable online tutorials or courses.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step.
  • Practice using the models and techniques.
Write a blog post or article on a specific infectious disease outbreak
Writing a blog post or article allows you to synthesize and communicate your understanding of a specific infectious disease outbreak.
Browse courses on Public Health Communication
Show steps
  • Choose an outbreak of interest.
  • Research the outbreak and gather information.
  • Organize your thoughts and write a draft.
  • Edit and proofread your work.
  • Publish your blog post or article.
Volunteer at a local health organization or clinic
Volunteering provides practical experience in the field of public health and allows you to apply your knowledge to real-world situations.
Browse courses on Public Health
Show steps
  • Identify local health organizations or clinics.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Attend training and orientation.
  • Carry out your volunteer duties.
Mentor a junior student or new professional in the field
Mentoring others allows you to share your knowledge and experience while fostering the development of the next generation of infectious disease professionals.
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Identify a junior student or new professional who could benefit from your guidance.
  • Establish a mentoring relationship.
  • Set goals and expectations.
  • Provide guidance and support.
  • Monitor progress and provide feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Reflections from 40 Years Fighting International Epidemics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate how diseases spread and develop strategies to prevent and control them. This course would provide you with valuable knowledge of the history of epidemics, as well as the challenges and successes of international efforts to combat them. It would also help you develop skills in data analysis, surveillance, and communication, all of which are essential for a successful career in epidemiology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist
Infectious Disease Physician
Infectious disease physicians diagnose and treat patients with infections. This course would provide you with a deep understanding of the causes, symptoms, and treatment of infectious diseases, as well as the public health measures that can be used to prevent their spread. It would also help you develop skills in patient care, diagnostic testing, and antibiotic stewardship, all of which are essential for a successful career in infectious disease medicine.
See salaries and explore the career path for Infectious Disease Physician
Medical Anthropologist
Medical anthropologists study the social and cultural factors that influence health and illness. This course would provide you with a unique perspective on the human experience of epidemics, as well as the role that culture plays in shaping health outcomes. It would also help you develop skills in qualitative research, ethnography, and cultural analysis, all of which are essential for a successful career in medical anthropology.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Anthropologist
Public Health Policy Analyst
Public health policy analysts develop and evaluate policies that aim to improve health and well-being. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of public health, as well as the political and economic factors that influence health policy. It would also help you develop skills in policy analysis, advocacy, and communication, all of which are essential for a successful career in public health policy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Policy Analyst
Global Health Program Manager
Global health program managers oversee the implementation of health programs in developing countries. This course would provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities of global health, as well as the skills needed to manage complex health programs. It would also help you develop skills in project management, budgeting, and fundraising, all of which are essential for a successful career in global health.
See salaries and explore the career path for Global Health Program Manager
Health Educator
Health educators develop and implement educational programs that promote health and prevent disease. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of health education, as well as the skills needed to design, implement, and evaluate health education programs. It would also help you develop skills in communication, community outreach, and behavior change, all of which are essential for a successful career in health education.
See salaries and explore the career path for Health Educator
Medical Writer
Medical writers create clear and concise written materials that communicate medical information to a variety of audiences. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of medical writing, as well as the skills needed to write for different audiences, including patients, healthcare professionals, and the general public. It would also help you develop skills in research, editing, and communication, all of which are essential for a successful career in medical writing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Writer
Science Journalist
Science journalists write about scientific topics for a variety of audiences, including the general public, scientists, and policymakers. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of science journalism, as well as the skills needed to write about complex scientific topics in a clear and concise manner. It would also help you develop skills in research, interviewing, and writing, all of which are essential for a successful career in science journalism.
See salaries and explore the career path for Science Journalist
Healthcare Consultant
Healthcare consultants help healthcare organizations improve their performance. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of healthcare management, as well as the skills needed to analyze healthcare data, identify problems, and develop solutions. It would also help you develop skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, all of which are essential for a successful career in healthcare consulting.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Consultant
Biostatistician
Biostatisticians use statistical methods to analyze data related to health and medicine. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of biostatistics, as well as the skills needed to design, conduct, and analyze statistical studies. It would also help you develop skills in data analysis, programming, and communication, all of which are essential for a successful career in biostatistics.
See salaries and explore the career path for Biostatistician
Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Pharmaceutical sales representatives promote and sell pharmaceutical products to healthcare professionals. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of pharmacology, as well as the skills needed to build relationships with healthcare professionals and market pharmaceutical products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Pharmaceutical Sales Representative
Clinical Research Coordinator
Clinical research coordinators manage clinical trials, which are research studies that test the safety and effectiveness of new drugs and treatments. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of clinical research, as well as the skills needed to manage clinical trials and ensure that they are conducted in a safe and ethical manner.
See salaries and explore the career path for Clinical Research Coordinator
Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators manage the day-to-day operations of healthcare organizations. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of healthcare management, as well as the skills needed to oversee the financial, operational, and human resources aspects of healthcare organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Healthcare Administrator
Medical Librarian
Medical librarians provide access to and manage information resources for healthcare professionals and patients. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of medical librarianship, as well as the skills needed to search for and retrieve medical information, manage medical libraries, and provide reference services to healthcare professionals and patients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Medical Librarian
Chiropractor
Chiropractors diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain, neck pain, and headaches. This course would provide you with a strong foundation in the principles of chiropractic medicine, as well as the skills needed to diagnose and treat neuromusculoskeletal conditions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chiropractor

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Reflections from 40 Years Fighting International Epidemics.
Cover image
The Outsider
Save
A classic work of literature that explores the themes of isolation, fear, and the human condition in the face of a deadly epidemic.
The Outsider
Paperback
Check
The Outsider
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Crisis in the Red Zone
Save
A gripping account of the Ebola virus and the scientists who are working to stop it.
Crisis in the Red Zone
Paperback
Check
Crisis in the Red Zone
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Contagio: La evolución de las pandemias / Spillover...
Save
A comprehensive overview of the history of pandemics and the threats posed by emerging infectious diseases.
Contagio: La evolución de las pandemias / Spillover...
Paperback
$$
The Coming Plague
Save
A timely and thought-provoking book that examines the factors that are contributing to the rise of new epidemics.
The Coming Plague: Newly Emerging Diseases in a...
Paperback
$$
(中文) The Coming Plague: Newly Emerging Diseases in a...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The End of Epidemics
Save
A call to action for governments and public health organizations to invest in pandemic preparedness and response.
The End of Epidemics
Paperback
Check
The End of Epidemics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Virus and the Vaccine
Save
A detailed account of the development and distribution of the polio vaccine.
The Virus and the Vaccine: Contaminated Vaccine,...
Paperback
$$
The Virus and the Vaccine: Contaminated Vaccine,...
Unknown Binding
$$
The Virus and the Vaccine: Contaminated Vaccine,...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Great Influenza
Save
A comprehensive history of the 1918 flu pandemic.
The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest...
Kindle Edition
$
The Great Influenza: The Epic Story of the...
Hardcover
$$$
Cover image
Health Care in the Information Society
Save
A textbook that provides an overview of the field of medical humanities.
Health Care in the Information Society Vol. 1: From...
Hardcover
$$$
Health Care in the Information Society: Volume 2 -...
Kindle Edition
$
Health Care in the Information Society: Volume 1 -...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The American Psychiatric Association Practice...
Save
A reference tool that provides case examples of the DSM-5 criteria for various mental disorders.
The American Psychiatric Association Practice...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Harrisons Principles of Internal Medicine Self...
Save
A comprehensive textbook of internal medicine that provides detailed information on all aspects of the field.
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine Self...
Paperback
$$$
Harrisons Principles of Internal Medicine Self...
Paperback
$$$
Harrisons Principles of Internal Medicine Self...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Bratton's Family Medicine Board Review
Save
Another comprehensive textbook of medicine that provides concise summaries of the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.
Bratton's Family Medicine Board Review
Paperback
Check
Bratton's Family Medicine Board Review
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Administrative Topics in Athletic Training
Save
A subscription-based online medical resource that provides up-to-date information on all aspects of medicine.
Administrative Topics in Athletic Training:...
Hardcover
$$$
Administrative Topics in Athletic Training:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Administrative Topics in Athletic Training:...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Handbook of Academic Integrity
Save
A free online database of biomedical and life sciences literature.
Second Handbook of Academic Integrity (Springer...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
A Leader's Destiny
Save
A free online search engine that provides access to scholarly literature.
A Leader's Destiny: Why Psychology, Personality,...
Hardcover
$$
A Leader's Destiny: Why Psychology, Personality,...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Dartmouth College
Instructor
Daniel R. Lucey
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Addresses real-world applications of medical humanities in infectious disease settings
Focuses on practical hands-on experience in epidemic management
Incorporates the latest scientific research and best practices
Provides insights from a seasoned professional with extensive fieldwork experience
Emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in combating epidemics
Requires prior knowledge and experience in infectious disease management
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