The course is focused on some infectious diseases and the related vaccines, describing the path from the pathogen to the vaccine, including basic information on the pathology of the infections, and on the aspects of research and development, manufacturing, and licensing of vaccines. Some pathogens are described for which vaccines are already available on the market, and other main pathogens for which vaccines are in the research and development phase.
Part of the course (“general part”) is dedicated to mention historical and general aspects of vaccination, development, production and commercialization of vaccines: immune system effectors, non-clinical and clinical studies, current rules for animal experiments, regulatory activities, efficacy of population vaccinations.
Another part of the course (“specific part”) is dedicated to individual pathogens. In particular, the following pathogens are treated: Poliovirus, Helicobacter pylori, Streptococcus pneumoniae, influenza virus, and pathogens causing pandemics. For each pathogen are treated historical aspects, relevance to the public health, elements of epidemiology, microbiology, pathology, vaccine research and development, efficacy of therapies and vaccines. Moreover, the current situation of the mandatory vaccinations and of the main recommended vaccinations in Italy is described.
During the course, even on the basis of possible suggestions from the Students, further pathogens or topics of particular scientific interest and relevant to the course can be identified, to whom specific lessons can be dedicated.
The course is held in Italian language, but a small part of the didactic material is in English language.

The reference book is: Plotkin’s Vaccines, 7th edition, Elsevier 2017, available at the University Library. This book can be used for possible clarification and deepening of the topics of the lessons.