August 26, 2011
Entomologist publishes on policy topics related to advancing research in leishmaniasis
Marcelo Ramalho-Ortigao, assistant professor of entomology, with colleagues from Notre Dame and from Pasteur Institutes in Tunisia and Iran, published a article in PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases on policy topics related to advancing research in leishmaniasis in North Africa and the Middle East.
Leishmaniasis remains one of the world's most devastating neglected tropical diseases, causing substantial mortality and contributing to nearly 2 million disability-adjusted life years. The Middle East and North Africa region is endemic for many forms of leishmanisis and has hosted many recent epidemic outbreaks. Increased investments in research, availability of laboratory facilities and close collaboration among scientists would greatly advance the leishmaniasis field. This article suggests specific efforts needed to increase scientific capacity in the Middle East and North Africa region. The full article can be found here.