The Analysis and Control of Zika and Dengue Virus Epidemics

The Zika epidemic has been declared by the World Health Organization to be a “public health emergency of international concern,” and dengue continues to be a global public health menace. Both viruses are spread by the same Aedes mosquito vector, which now exposes nearly half of the world population to these viruses. In addition, Zika can be spread sexually from male-to-female and possibly through other types of direct contact. These epidemics can be controlled through improved vector control and new vaccines. This session describes the statistical and mathematical methods being developed and used to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions. Based on their potential levels of effectiveness, the panelists will discuss how these interventions may be used to control Zika, dengue, and other arboviruses spread by Aedes now and in the future.

Organizer:  Ira M. Longini Jr., University of Florida
Moderator:  Natalie Dean, University of Florida
Discussant:  Ira M. Longini Jr., University of Florida

Speakers:
Nicholas P. Jewell, University of California, Berkeley
Testing the Efficacy of Wolbachia Against Dengue Virus Transmission With Randomized Trials

M. Elizabeth Halloran, University of Washington
The Design and Analysis of Vaccine Trials for Zika and Dengue

Gonzalo Vazquez-Prokopec, Emory University
Vector Control Approaches for Immediate Response to Zika Outbreaks