ISC: Infectious Diseases

School of Medicine

A WHO report warns that infectious diseases are spreading more rapidly than ever before and that new infectious diseases are being discovered at a higher rate than at any time in history. This elective is for students with an interest in learning more about how to diagnose and treat patients with infectious disease. Students will also learn how to use antibiotics appropriately and manage the complications of HIV and other chronic infections. The diversity of patient population will afford the student a breadth of experience in evaluating and managing patients with infectious diseases. In this clinic-driven experience, students are placed in clinical experiences in various settings including inpatient, outpatient and laboratory medicine and are introduced to key topics and concepts in infectious diseases including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, vaccines, and antibiotic stewardship. Methods to establish an etiologic diagnosis and rational use of antibiotics are emphasized. Foundational science topics include Epidemiology, Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, Pathology and Pathophysiology. The course is taught through online modules, lectures, clinic exposures to patients, team-based learning, and case presentations.