Transmission Dynamics
Rabies is transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. These events are often distinct and memorable, providing an unusual opportunity to track transmission. We are using contact tracing in study sites in Tanzania to understand factors influencing the spread of rabies. Our work combines investigative field and molecular epidemiology with statistical and computational modelling.
Landscape Epidemiology
We use data from different geographic settings, including island and mainland populations, across a range of population densities and from small to continental scales. Applying quantitative statistical and genetic approaches to these data we aim to understand the role of different landscape attributes including vaccination intervention on rabies spread and persistence.
Health Systems
Strong health systems are essential for effective disease control and management of health services. However, limited infrastructure and resources pose challenges in low-income countries. Our focus on surveillance of rabies requires intersectoral collaboration and building capacity for real-time reporting and response mechanisms, even in remote areas.
Disease elimination
Elimination is the ultimate goal for many disease control efforts; however, there is little scientific guidance for managing the final stages of elimination programmes. We are engaged with collaborators to understand the progress of control measures aiming to eliminate rabies from across a range of spatial scales and geographical settings.