COVID19 – 101

COVID19 – 101 will give students an opportunity to understand the basic cell biology, virology, immunology, genetics, epidemiology, and public health initiatives involved in the COVID-19 pandemic and the movement towards it being endemic.  The central dogma of molecular biology, the basics of the structure of the cell, the life cycle of pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, and the mammalian immune system will be covered in enough depth to give students the tools to comprehend the different COVID-19 prevention, testing, treatment and vaccine strategies available.  Students will listen to or participate in interviews with a variety of experts whose work intersects with infectious disease, public health, or pandemic response each day of the course.  Students will be asked to prepare a final public service announcement for their peers, friends, and family to educate them on ‘what they need to know’ about the ongoing COVID-19 situation.