Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

The role of invertebrate vectors in the transmission of infectious agents and the causation of diseases in humans is the major focus of this unit. Students are introduced to viral, parasitic and other disease agents which are transmitted by vectors and the role of environmental factors which influence vector-borne diseases. This unit discusses the life cycle of disease vectors, their ecology, identification, methods of vector sampling and control. Approaches used in the surveillance of vector-borne diseases are also discussed.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth), QEII Medical CentreFace to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) recognise the concept of vector-borne diseases and the various types of pathogens which are transmitted to humans by arthropod vectors; (2) identify the different kinds of arthropod vectors which transmit infectious agents to humans, and those which are major vectors of disease; (3) investigate the theory of vector control and the use of sampling methods and comprehensive vector control programs; (4) identify how vectors of disease are determined during outbreaks of vector-borne infectious diseases; (5) describe the epidemiology of vector-borne diseases and the approaches used in surveillance systems for monitoring particular vector-borne infectious diseases; and (6) describe the effect of environmental factors, human influences and climate change on vector-borne diseases and the approaches used in environmental management to control the vectors associated with these diseases.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) practical assessment; (2) end-of-semester examination; and (3) tests. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Christopher Peacock
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Graduate Diploma in Infectious Diseases.
or Master of Infectious Diseases
Advisable prior study
MICR5829 Foundations of Infectious Diseases.
MICR5842 Principles of Infection and Immunity.
PUBH4403 Epidemiology I.
MICR5830 Principles of Mycology and Parasitology
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
labs: 2 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.