The infection biology, ecology and One Health perspective of vector- and reservoir-borne infectious diseases
Course description
Vector- and reservoir-borne infectious diseases pose increasing challenges to animal and human health in a changing world. Climate change, land-use alterations, and globalisation are reshaping the distribution of vectors, wildlife reservoirs, and pathogens, creating new risks and research questions.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of vector- and reservoir-borne diseases from the perspectives of infection biology, ecology, and One Health. Through a series of thematic seminars led by international experts and researchers from SLU, participants will examine the interactions between pathogens, hosts, and vectors or reservoirs. Topics include tick-borne, mosquito-borne, midge-borne, rodent-borne, bat-borne, and avian-borne infections, with case studies such as Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever integrating pathogen biology, vector ecology, and environmental and climate-related aspects.
Each seminar is followed by a course-related activity for registered PhD students, providing opportunities for critical reflection, interdisciplinary dialogue, and connection to participants’ own research projects.
Course facts
P000186, The infection biology, ecology and One Health perspective of vector- and reservoir-borne infectious diseases, 1.5 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: FUN-VH, 2026-05-04
Valid from : Second half-year 2026 (2026-07-01)
Level
Third cycle
Subject
Veterinary Science
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
English
Entry Requirements
Objectives
After completing the course, the student shall be able to:
- Describe and explain the biology, ecology, and epidemiology of major vector- and reservoir-borne infectious diseases affecting animals and humans.
- Analyse and discuss interactions between pathogens, vectors/reservoirs, and hosts in relation to environmental, ecological, socio-economic factors and the impact of climate change.
- Critically evaluate scientific literature and current research within infection biology and disease ecology and relate findings to their own field of study.
- Apply a One Health perspective to assess the emergence, transmission, and control of vector- and reservoir-borne diseases.
- Reflect on ethical, biosafety, and sustainability aspects relevant to research and management of such infectious diseases.
Content
The course addresses vector- and reservoir-borne infectious diseases from the perspectives of infection biology, ecology, epidemiology, and One Health. The subject content includes pathogen biology, host–pathogen–vector/reservoir interactions, transmission dynamics, environmental determinants of disease spread, and the influence of climate change and land-use change on emerging and re-emerging infections. Examples of thematic areas include tick-borne, mosquito-borne, midge-borne, rodent-borne, bat-borne, and avian-borne diseases. Case studies are used to integrate pathogen characteristics, vector/reservoir ecology, and environmental and climate-related drivers of disease distribution.
Teaching is organised as a series of thematic seminars delivered by international experts and researchers from SLU, held at intervals of approximately 3–5 weeks. Each seminar is followed by a course-related activity for registered PhD students, organised by the course team.
The format of these activities may vary depending on the topic and may include, for example, critical discussion of scientific articles, discussions based on the seminar content, or individual written assignments. All activities are thematically linked to the seminar and designed to promote critical analysis, interdisciplinary dialogue, and the ability to relate theoretical perspectives to participants’ own research projects.
Sustainable development is addressed through discussions of how environmental change, biodiversity loss, climate change, and globalisation affect disease emergence and transmission. The course integrates a One Health perspective, highlighting the interconnectedness of animal, human, and ecosystem health. Gender equality perspectives are considered when relevant, for example in relation to differential exposure risks, occupational roles, and access to resources in disease prevention and control, as well as through awareness of inclusive representation among invited speakers and course participants.
The course has a strong international perspective, both through the global relevance of vector- and reservoir-borne diseases and through contributions from international researchers. Examples and case studies reflect diverse geographical regions and epidemiological contexts.
General competences developed in the course include critical evaluation of scientific literature, interdisciplinary communication skills, and the ability to synthesise complex biological and ecological information.
Mandatory elements:
Active participation in seminars and associated activities, preparation based on assigned readings and guiding questions, and submission of a brief written reflection for each attended seminar is required for course completion.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Attendance at a minimum of 75% of the seminars and associated activities. Submission of a brief written reflection for each attended seminar is required, integrating insights from the seminar and related course activities, assessed as pass*.*
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Animal Biosciences
Supplementary information
Other Information
The course is organised by the SLU Committee for Global Animal Diseases (CGD) at the VH faculty.