Vector-borne and Zoonotic Disease-Focused Projects

Insect- and tick-transmitted pathogens (for example, West Nile virus, plague, Lyme disease) and other naturally occurring microorganisms transmissible to humans (hantavirus, rabies, avian influenza) have strong linkages to local landscape and to climate patterns. Those characteristics make these diseases ideally suited to study by using GIS and remote sensing tools. A central focus of projects in this research area is the application of remote sensing and spatial analysis to better define the risk of infection from these agents. Other areas of interest include the introduction and spread of alien vector species, such as the Asian "tiger mosquito" Aedes albopictus, and the impact of human activities -- such as international and interstate commerce -- on the spread of diseases and vectors.