Thursday, February 19, 2004

West Nile Mapping/Seroprevalance Study
West Nile Virus is newly emerging in the Western Hemisphere. Important predictors of human infection can be tracked using the Geographical Information System (GIS) software. If areas where viral activity is high can be readily identified, preventative measures can be initiated. The Center is currently collaborating with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, local health departments and the Saint Louis University GIS Laboratory to track the geographic activity of West Nile Virus in the St. Louis area. This research will enable healthcare and public health professionals to better understand the geographic, ecological and epidemiological characteristics of the Virus, as well as develop a predictive tool to prevent human infection.

Have a question or comment? Email bioterr@slu.edu