Understanding public health amid COVID-19

Centers for Disease Control: Coronavirus

The CDC is our nation’s official source for public health information. This website is comprehensive and updated daily, so you can be sure you are getting the latest. It contains important guidance about coronavirus for you and your family, for your business or for returning to work.

“Masks Help Stop the Spread of Coronavirus”

As this article from The Conversation makes clear, there is strong evidence that wearing a mask can help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. In fact, the county issued a health order requiring masks in public spaces where social distancing cannot be facilitated. It’s good policy backed by good science.

Contact Tracing

One of the key strategies to interrupting the transmission of a virus like COVID-19 is the implementation of contact tracing—the process of identifying people who may have come in contact with an infected person. More than 25 million students have signed up to take this free Coursera course on how to conduct contact tracing offered by Johns Hopkins University in partnership with Partners in Health.

Fundamentals of Epidemiology I

Epidemiology is the cornerstone of public health, and fundamental knowledge of this subject will help you understand the pandemic we are living through now. This free course is offered by Johns Hopkins University.

Gap Minder

Developed by Hans Rosling, a Swedish physician, this website aims to open our eyes to global health data. Filled with interesting activities, the site features a quick survey that tests your understanding of the current state of world health. The interactive maps allow you to compare health and economic outcomes in different countries.

“The Best Stats You’ve Ever Seen”

Physician Hans Rosling’s TED Talks are hugely popular. He is a dynamic speaker, demonstrating great passion and compassion, and you will be engaged immediately. If you enjoy this one, make sure to explore his other talks

John Snow’s Map

John Snow is considered to be the father of epidemiology. In 1854, London experienced a terrifying cholera outbreak where 10% of the population contracted the disease within a single week. For the first time in history, Snow documented cases on a map to visually understand how the disease may have been transmitted. You can explore his map here and learn more about this past outbreak.