Introduction to Medical Microbiology and Immunology

 What is Microbiology?

Microbes, or microorganisms are minute living things that are usually unable to be viewed with the naked eye.

Examples of microbes:

Bacteria, fungi, protozoa, algae, viruses are examples! Some are pathogenic

Coverage of subject

• General issues
• Bacteriology
• Mycology
• Virology
• Immunology

Course objectives

1. To provide the student with the basic knowledge of microorganisms in general
2. To study the main characteristics of bacteria of medical importance
3. To teach aseptic techniques
4. To provide an understanding of antimicrobial agents

A. KNOWLEDGE

1.To understand the main principles of general Medical Microbiology and Immunology including anatomy and physiology of procaryotic cells, microbial ecology, control of microorganisms by sterilization and disinfection, principles of antimicrobial chemotherapy, immunobiology and host immune response to microbial infections.

2.To acquire the knowledge of the hostparasite environment relationship in health and in microbial diseases.

3.To understand the etiology of known microbial and immunological health problems.

4. To be familiar with general epidemiological aspects of microbial health problems, i.e modes of transmission of microbial infections (vectors, contact, droplets etc), role of “carriers” in certain cases, sources of infecting agents, nonsocomial infections, simple preventive measures of specific health problems

5.To be familiar with the laboratory procedures used for determining the etiology of common microbial and immunological health problems.

B. SKILLS

1. For general aseptic procedures
2. For collection and handling of appropriate specimens.
3. For performing simple and essential microbiological and immunological techniques, including staining culture, and basic immunoassays for the diagnosis of common diseases.
4. For use and care of basic laboratory instruments and materials.
5. For interpretation of microbiological and immunological laboratory test results.

C. ATTITUDES

1. To appreciate the importance of Microbiology and Immunology in problem solving in the practice of preventive and curative medicine.
2. To acquire interest in the science of Microbiology and Immunology in human development, in health and diseases.

II. Teaching methodology

1. Lectures: Lecturers will be used as the main method of imparting knowledge and developing skills and attitudes.
2. Laboratory Practicals: This method will be employed for development of skills and familiarity with basic laboratory equipment, and appreciation of scientific procedures, and evaluation of test results.
3.  Tutorials:This method will gradually be used as staff situation improves, and following availability of literature materials and audiovisual aids.
4.  Audio visual aids: These include slides, photographic charts and films. They will be used to supplement lecturers and practicals.
5.  Self learning: As much as possible students will be assigned topics to read and study in textbooks and other reading materials.

III. EVALUATION/ ASSESSMENT

METHODS

The following evaluation methods will be used for finding out whether the stated objectives have been met and also for further improvement in the teaching of the course.

Objective examinations

Written exams to evaluate acquisition of knowledge. This will include essays , short notes , multiple choice questions,

Practical: This will evaluate whether the listed skills have been acquired.

3. Evaluation of attitude:

This is rather difficult, however, an attempt will be made to evaluate this aspect in collaboration with other faculty disciplines.

Recommended Textbooks

Muray, Rosenthal Pfaller, Medical Micribiology,Latest Edition. ? 8 Ed.

Jawetz, E; Melnick JL and Adelberg EA. Review of Medical Microbiology. Latest edition. Lange Medical Publications California 1992.

Roitt, I. Essential Immunology. Latest Edition. Blackwell Scientific Publications. Timbury MC. Notes of Medical virology. Churchil Livingstone. Latest Edition.