3.0

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Explores how molecular biology is used to understand how specific respiratory viruses create pandemics. Begins with an analysis of the virus that caused the great public health catastrophe, the 1918 Spanish Influenza Pandemic and then examines more recent pandemic viruses, including SARS-Cov-2. Focuses on the use of molecular techniques in defining why specific mutations increase the virulence and pandemic potential of a virus, the pathological response of a host’s immune system to a virulent virus and pathological interactions between two different respiratory pathogens. Emphasizes how molecular, pathophysiological and immunological studies may be used to predict a virus’ pandemic potential. Reviews how governmental responses affect the spread of a disease with pandemic potential, including the response to SARS-CoV-2.