Course

Welcome to the Communicable Diseases module of the HEAT Programme.

Communicable diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi and parasites, make a huge contribution to the burden of disease, disability and death in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia.

Six leading groups of infectious diseases (acute respiratory infections, HIV/AIDS, diarrhoeal diseases, tuberculosis, malaria and measles) together cause over 11 million deaths worldwide every year, and at least 1 billion people are affected by so-called ‘neglected tropical diseases’, including leprosy and schistosomiasis, and/or by intestinal parasites such as tapeworm and hookworm.

Some communicable diseases are easily preventable through simple measures such as vaccination and changes in human behaviour (for example, handwashing with soap). 

This Module will help you to acquire the basic skills and knowledge to reduce the burden of mortality and morbidity in your community through the detection, prevention and treatment of common infections.