LI Course
CE Hours: 3 contact hours

Statement of Purpose and Institute Overview: The mathematical modeling of infectious diseases is a powerful tool for public health research with a rich history of providing otherwise inaccessible insights into the processes of disease spread. The use and interpretation of these models is, however, an uncommon element of public health training and can prove prohibitively daunting for self-study. The purpose of this Institute is to provide an approachable introduction to disease modeling, requiring neither disease-specific expertise nor mathematical training beyond basic algebra. Using a common cultural reference point, for which even those not already familiar can become subject matter experts in a short time - the "Zombie Apocalypse" and similar entertainment media rooted concepts - participants will be exposed to the most common types of models used to study infectious diseases. The assumptions, appropriate uses, and departures from, these model's common form (to account for more complex etiology, vaccination, outbreak dynamics etc.) will be discussed and grounded in a unified framework. Presentations will focus on study design and interpretation challenges most important to public health researchers, though an introduction to implementing models will be provided to allow participants to explore the concepts addressed in the Institute later on. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the presentations and pose their own challenges, or solutions, through open discussion.

Session Objectives: 1. Identify appropriate applications of mathematical models in public health. 2. Evaluate different approaches to modeling public health questions. 3. Analyze critically modeling efforts in the field and the published literature.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)