The University of Florida addresses infectious diseases through a comprehensive strategy. This approach integrates advanced patient care, scientific investigation, and specialized academic training. As part of the largest medical education center in the southeastern United States, the university works to advance understanding and management of these conditions. This commitment positions the University of Florida as a leader in public health.
Patient Care and Clinical Services
The UF Division of Infectious Diseases & Global Medicine delivers extensive clinical services for patients facing a broad spectrum of communicable diseases. Their team develops comprehensive treatment plans and educates patients on preventative measures. Patients receive inpatient care at UF Health Shands Hospital and access outpatient services at the UF Health Medical Plaza.
The division addresses conditions such as HIV/AIDS, bone and tissue infections, central nervous system infections, tropical or travel-related illnesses, hospital-acquired infections, and various fungal infections. The Outpatient Parenteral Antibiotic Therapy (OPAT) program provides a pathway for safe administration of long-term intravenous antibiotics outside the hospital.
Research and Innovation
Research at the University of Florida significantly contributes to understanding and combating infectious diseases, with a central role played by the Emerging Pathogens Institute (EPI). This interdisciplinary institute focuses on anticipating, preventing, and controlling new and re-emerging infectious threats. Researchers within the EPI explore areas like viral discovery, vector-borne diseases such as Zika and dengue, and the study of coronaviruses.
The EPI’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic highlights its research capabilities, including efforts to predict disease spread and analyze vaccine effectiveness. University researchers also engaged in genomic surveillance, sequencing thousands of SARS-CoV-2 strains to track emerging variants and understand viral behavior.
Academic Programs and Training
The University of Florida offers academic programs for medical professionals, notably through its Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program. This program provides physicians with in-depth training in a dynamic academic setting. Fellows gain experience in clinical infectious diseases while also exploring opportunities in basic research, tuberculosis management, hospital epidemiology, and infection control.
The three-year fellowship includes inpatient clinical training at UF Health/Shands Hospital and the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center. Trainees can pursue specialized tracks in areas such as clinical education, research, or global medicine, tailoring their experience to individual career aspirations. This integration of practical clinical experience with research opportunities is a strength of UF’s educational offerings.