Location: Zoonotic and Emerging Disease Research
Project Number: 3022-32000-027-022-S
Project Type: Non-Assistance Cooperative Agreement
Start Date: Sep 1, 2024
End Date: Aug 31, 2026
Objective:
The objectives of this project include:
Objective 1: Characterize the ecology of henipahviruses with a focus on the One-Health concept.
• Conduct the molecular characterization of new and emerging henipahviruses, including phylogenetics, and network analysis.
• Examine known or emerging henipahviruses that may have an impact on animal agriculture, including their potential impact on public health.
Objective 2: Develop surveillance strategies and early warning systems for henipahviruses
• Improve surveillance strategies to detect henipaviruses in high-risk countries.
• Establish a formal laboratory network for henipavirus surveillance that includes standardized specimen collection, laboratory testing scheme, quality control, specimen referral and accreditation.
Approach:
The aim of the study is to explore potential spillover occurrences and mechanisms of henipaviruses. The frequency, mechanisms, and risk of these events are poorly understood. This project will leverage partners with established networks in Bangaldesh to investigate spillovers and potential spillovers. Samples will be collected from identified and suspected events. In addition a meta analysis of the distribution of bats, agriculture animals, available serologic data and reported spillovers or suspected spillovers will be utilized to identify area that are at high risk for spillovers. Samples will be collected from animals in the area, waste water, fruit and other suspected sources for investigation. Samples will be interrogated with molecular and immunologic assays to identify spillover agents.
