Health Canada’s COVID 19 Epidemiology Updates, provide vital information on how Canada is managing the epidemic on both a federal and provincial level.
For many of us, these reports may feel overwhelming as we scan for the crucial details - number of rising cases and deaths across the country. However, upon closer observation this documentation provides a wealth of information on how social, environmental and economic factors are contributing to the health and wellbeing of Canadians. It’s this information, in the hands of researchers, doctors and policy makers, that can make a critical difference!
Some provinces are currently experiencing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases, and there are still many questions that need to be answered. Why do some people experience severe symptoms and some hardly any? Who should be the first to receive a potential future vaccine? What are the long-term complications associated with COVID-19 and how often do they occur?
This is where Epidemiological skills are key.
Epidemiology in concerned with the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events within a given population. An Epidemiological researcher might ask – What are the potential health problems associated with COVID 19 in society? Who is at highest risk? What are the trends and patterns over time and as recorded through health service providers? This research seeks to understand the relationships, trends and causes of ill health through the use of specific methodological tools and techniques. With answers provided through the application of epidemiology, societies can make informed decisions. More importantly, these decisions can support a broad range of needs from health crisis management and recovery to developing sustainable health policies.
The ability to address societal questions by analyzing health data and applying epidemiological methods are key components of what the PHDA 02 Epidemiological Statistics course offers.
To learn more about this topic and how you can enrol in the January 2021 course click here.
