Outline

Overview

This unit provides students with an understanding of the individual and societal risks of healthcare-associated infections (HAI) wherever they occur, including community settings, and the rationale for, and barriers to, their prevention and control. The unit builds on a basic understanding of medical microbiology, epidemiology and infectious diseases and explores important contemporary concepts to the science and practice of infection prevention and control. The unit examines contemporary definitions of HAIs, their significance to individual, societal and population health, how they are transmitted and the science and practice of interrupt this transmission using infection prevention and control. Topics include the use of standard and transmission-based precautions, outbreak management and the challenges that are associated with antimicrobial resistance and the management of emerging and high-consequence infectious diseases.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Public Health
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	PUBH5421
Assumed knowledge ?	Students are assumed to have a basic understanding of medical microbiology, epidemiology and common infectious diseases
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Ramon Shaban, ramon.shaban@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s)	Mary Wyer, mary.wyer@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s)	Cristina Sotomayor Castillo, cristina.sotomayor@sydney.edu.au
Tutor(s)	Catherine Viengkham, catherine.viengkham@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Practical skill	1. Hand Hygiene Competency Individual student (self) audiovisual demonstration loaded into Canvas.	0%	Week 05 Due date: 05 Sep 2025 at 23:59	30 minute demonstration presentation.	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	2. Surveillance Activity Written assessment	25%	Week 08 Due date: 26 Sep 2025 at 23:59	1500 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	3. Outbreak investigation Written assessment	25%	Week 09 Due date: 10 Oct 2025 at 23:59	1500 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	4. Behaviour Change Intervention Written assessment	35%	Week 11 Due date: 24 Oct 2025 at 23:59	2000 words	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	5. Occupational Exposure Management Group activity with self audiovisual presentation loaded into Canvas.	15%	Week 13 Due date: 07 Nov 2025 at 23:59	30 - 60 minute presentation	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ?

Assessment summary

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

Assessment Grading

The University awards common result grades, set out in the University Coursework Policy.

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100
Distinction	75 - 84
Credit	65 - 74
Pass	50 - 64
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

Late Penalty.

As per University of Sydney Assessment Procedures 2024.

Academic Integrity

Refer to https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/academic-integrity.html

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

As per the University of Sydney Assessment Procedures 2024

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 02	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 03	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 04	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 05	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 06	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 07	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 08	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 09	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 10	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 11	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 12	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)
Week 13	This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.	Tutorial (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

This unit is delivered in on-line mode with modules for each of the teaching weeks of the semester. Learning comprises asynchronous on-line lectures, directed readings, quizzes and other learning activities plus synchronous weekly Zoom on-line tutorials. The synchronously weekly Zoom on-line tutorials are timetabled during teaching weeks of the semester and are recorded and posted to Canvas for students who are unable to attend.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Shaban, R. Z., Mitchell, B., Russo, P. & Macbeth, D., editors. (2023). Healthcare-associated infections in Australia: Principles and practices of infection prevention and control. 1st ed. Sydney: Elsevier. Link: https://shop.elsevier.com/books/healthcare-associated-infections-in-australia/shaban/978-0-7295-4364-4 (Available via Elsevier Clinical Key)
Shaban, R. Z., Mitchell, B., Russo, P. & Macbeth, D., editors. (2023). Epidemiology of healthcare-associated infections in Australia: 1st ed. Sydney: Elsevier. Link: https://www.elsevierhealth.com.au/epidemiology-of-healthcare-associated-infections-in-australia-9780729543637.html (Available via Elsevier Clinical Key)
Shaban R Z, Li C, O'Sullivan M, Gerrard J, Stuart R, Teh J, Gilroy, N., Sorrell, T., White, E., Bag, S., Hackett, K., Chen, S., Kok, J., Dwyer, D., Iredell, J., Maddocks, S., Ferguson, P., Varshney, K., Carter, I., Barratt, R., Robertson, M., Baskar, S. R., Friend, C., Robosa, R., Sotomayor-Castillo, C,. Nahidi, S., Macbeth, D., Alcorn, K., Wattiaux, A., Moore, F., McMahon, J., Naughton, W., Korman, T., Catton, M., Kanapathipillai, R., Romanes, F., Rowe, E., Catford, J., Kennedy, B., Qiao, M., & Shaw, D. (2021). COVID-19 in Australia: Our national response to the first cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection during the early biocontainment phase. Internal Medicine Journal, 51, 42-51. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/imj.15105
Shaban, R. Z., Nahidi, S., Sotomayor-Castillo, C., Li, C., Gilroy, N., O'Sullivan, M. V. N., Sorrell, T. C., White, E., Hackett, K., & Bag, S. (2020). SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19: The lived experience and perceptions of patients in isolation and care in an Australian healthcare setting. American Journal of Infection Control, 48(12), 1445-1450. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajic.2020.08.032
National Health and Medical Research Council. (2019). Australian Guidelines for the Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infection. Australian Commission ibn Safety and Quality in Healthcare; Sydney.
Available free at: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/australian-guidelines-prevention-and-control-infection-healthcare
Basic Concepts of Infection Control (Version 2016). International Federation of Infection Control. Available free at: https://www.theific.org/education/basic-concepts-book/

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Define and describe contemporary healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and their associated risk factors.
LO2. Describe the principles of infection prevention and control, and explore major barriers to optimal implementation strategies to prevent and control healthcare-associated infections
LO3. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the major microbial causes of HAIs, including modes of transmission and organism-specific risk factors and preventive strategies.
LO4. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of, and skills in, standard and transmission-based precautions and their use to prevent and control HAIs.
LO5. Design and critique protocols for the investigation into the causes and sources of HAI outbreaks and evaluate interventions designed to reduce the incidence of HAIs.
LO6. Critique factors contributing to the spread of communicable diseases and antimicrobial resistance in healthcare and effective contemporary strategies for prevention and containment.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

This was run as a new unit in Sem 2, 2022 as a replacement for PUBH54521. It was very well received in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Some modifications to the module learning have been included in this version, including the adoption of new recommended readings and changes following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional information

N/A

Additional costs

Nil

Site visit guidelines

Nil

Work, health and safety

N/A

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

FMHU5000: Infection Prevention and Disease Control

Semester 2, 2025 [Online] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links