Abstract

This subject provides an introduction to veterinary decision making based on the use of quantitative veterinary epidemiology, evidence based practice and disease modelling approaches to describe, investigate, quantify and manage animal health in a variety of contexts.

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics: Introduction to Veterinary Epidemiology Quantifying disease;Sample size and sampling methods;Characteristics and interpretation of diagnostic tests;Study design & EBVM;Measures of Effect and Causation;Outbreak investigation;Risk analysis;Disease control; andApplication of epidemiological principles to decision making in the context of veterinary practice.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
1.
appropriately use the basic concepts and terminology applicable to epidemiology;
2.
determine and apply different methods to measure disease frequency, dynamics and associations;
3.
define, select and explore a range of appropriate sampling methods and conduct calculations of sample size;
4.
interpret and make appropriate inference from epidemiological outcomes;
5.
explore and understand the importance of the hierarchy of evidence, define and critically appraise each level of evidence;
6.
calculate, interpret and compare measures of diagnostic test accuracy;
7.
demonstrate knowledge of and apply the steps of an outbreak investigation;
8.
demonstrate knowledge of and appropriately apply principles of study design; and
9.
apply different epidemiological approaches to disease management scenarios taking into account varied production systems.

Enrolment restrictions

Only students enrolled in the Bachelor of Veterinary Biology / Bachelor of Veterinary Science.