The Midwest Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Disease

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Project Summary. This proposal details proposed activities by the Midwest Center of Excellence for Vector-Borne Diseases (MCE-VBD) in response to the CDC Funding Opportunity RFA-CK-22-005. The MCE-VBD includes accomplished and enthusiastic partners from academic, public health, and vector control institutions in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Iowa. Across the region, climate change impacts on vector-borne disease are expected as a result of 1) increased temperatures that can promote vector population growth and affect phenological activity patterns, 2) changes in annual snow cover depth and occurrence which impacts overwintering success of ticks and introduced mosquito species, and 3) extreme weather, with more frequent heavy rainfall and periods of drought affecting mosquito and arbovirus outbreaks, especially in large urban areas. The broad and long-term goal of the Center is to incentivize new and expanded interactions between experts in the region so that responses to endemic and epidemic vector borne disease are improved and accelerated. To achieve this goal, the project is focused on three major objectives: 1) Research to improve prevention of human exposure to vector bites. For this aim, we will evaluate current methods of control for mosquitoes and ticks and will develop new tools to reduce human risks of exposure. Data from research projects will feed back into outreach and education products for use with PH, tax-funded mosquito control districts, private pest control operators, and citizens as partners. 2) Increase the opportunities for training in public health entomology (PHE) for students. This objective will be achieved through graduate student training in PHE and through administration of a Certificate of PHE, with a curriculum including instruction on vector identification, surveillance and control methods, and pesticide application licensure. We will also offer a fellowship program which will provide paid internships in PHE and have established partnerships to enhance recruitment of students from underrepresented backgrounds. 3) Build a community of practice including public health and mosquito control experts at the county and district/municipal level, state public health experts, professional pest control companies, and academic scientists at research institutions. This goal will be achieved by evaluating region-specific public health educational efforts and interacting to establish best practices for VBD management. Successful completion of these objectives will dramatically expand the ability of public health authorities in the Midwest to detect and respond to threats as well as provide a strongly supported evidence-based practice for management of vector-borne disease.