Kevin Njabo

Approaches to Correlating Vectors and Diseases in Rainforest Cameroon Using Molecular Genetics and Remote Sensing

Kevin and Anton collecting larvae in Ndibi. Note the seed eater nest to the left of picture.

A multidisciplinary approach (morphological and molecular) is essential for proper identification of vectors as well as to improve our knowledge on their epidemiological role and transmission biology. The project consists of two major components. The first will involve remote sensing modeling (based of previous results) to identify regions of mature forest and human disturbed areas for intensive field sampling (trapping of vectors with appropriate trapping techniques and preparing of voucher samples).

The second part consists of data analyses (vector identification and blood meal analyses through PCR, microscopy, etc) and inputting field data (presence/absence) into the remote sensing models. The models will be used to predict prevalence and thus provide information about changes in temperature, rainfall, forest fragmentation and greenness over a longitudinal time frame as well as data for cross sectional comparison between habitat types.

For more information contact kynjabo@hotmail.com