Introduction To Infection (Cause, Prevention And Control)

Learn about the major infectious diseases and their causative agents. Discover the principles, and importance, of aseptic technique in preventing the spread of infection.

This short course will provide a general introduction to different types of infection, their causes and how best to prevent and control their spread. You will explore the microscopic world of bacteria, algae, fungi, and viruses and learn the skills of a microbiologist.

This will be essential knowledge for anyone working in, or aiming to work in, the health or child care professions. This course will be delivered online, via MS Teams. Students will be emailed a meeting link prior to the start of the course.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Identify differences between bacteria, viruses, and fungi
• Identify common illnesses and infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites
• State the conditions needed for the growth of microorganisms
• Describe modes of transmission of microorganisms
• Identify potential sites of fomite transmission in the environment
• Compare and contrast sterilisation, disinfection, pasteurisation, and decontamination