Speaker
Description
Increasing human and animal case numbers and geographical spread of ticks and tick-transmitted diseases show their pandemic potential in the Northern hemisphere due to changing environmental conditions. In TAC-TICKS, experts from human/veterinary medicine, Public Health, animal ecology and biomathematical modelling join forces to elucidate this development and improve pandemic preparedness. We extend our 15+ year database of monthly native tick activities and pathogens through hotspot sampling, stratified Citizen Science and comprehensive pathogen characterization. To study tick and pathogen spread, we utilize our extensive Hyalomma- and Rhipicephalus tick database, TBE virus genomes, bird and large mammal migration, and related tick pathogen burden. We evaluate the potential vaccination's impact on disease epidemiology and containment serologically with the example of TBE.
Combining newly generated and publically available data, we develop climate-aware prediction models for tick activity and disease prevalence that inform efficient surveillance concepts and strategies. Partnering with district and state health departments and empowering communities, we aim to establish effective pre-pandemic surveillance and countermeasures. Our proactive approach, encompassing known bacterial, viral and protozoal pathogens as well as emerging unknown pathogens (“Pathogen X”) using a suitcase lab and nanopore sequencing in the field, thus strengthens public health in the face of evolving environmental threats.
Keywords
slow pandemic, stratified citizen science, predicting models, disease spread
| Registration ID | OHS26-318 |
|---|---|
| Professional Status of the Speaker | Professor |
| Junior Scientist Status | No, I am not a Junior Scientist. |
Authors
External references
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