Parasitology is the study of parasites, their biology, classification, life cycles, modes of transmission, host–parasite relationships, and the diseases they cause in humans and animals. The course introduces trainees to major groups of medically and veterinary important parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and arthropods. It covers parasite morphology, reproduction, epidemiology, pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, prevention, and control measures. Trainees gain knowledge and practical skills in parasite identification, specimen collection and processing, disease surveillance, and implementation of appropriate control strategies to reduce the burden of parasitic infections in communities and livestock populations.
By the end of the course, trainees will be able to classify parasites, explain their life cycles and transmission patterns, diagnose common parasitic infections, interpret laboratory findings, and recommend effective prevention and control measures in both human and animal health settings.
- Teacher: Leah Mukhamari