Andrew van den Hurk
Cairns A21-001 video linked to Townsville 39.252A
The last 20 years has seen unprecedented global expansion of arboviruses transmitted by mosquitoes, including Zika, yellow fever, chikungunya and West Nile. Recently, Zika virus has grabbed news headlines since it emerged in the Western Pacific and South America, where it has been associated with neurological disease and congenital birth defects. During this seminar I explore three key themes that drive my research on arboviruses. Firstly, by studying the complex interaction between virus, mosquito vector and vertebrate host, we can determine if Australia is vulnerable to outbreaks of exotic arboviral diseases. Secondly, the development of novel surveillance technologies for viruses and exotic mosquitoes enhances response capabilities. Finally, there are emerging biocontrol strategies that could help prevent transmission of mosquito-borne arboviruses in the future. Collectively, outcomes from this research enhance Australia’s preparedness for an outbreak of exotic arboviral disease.
Andrew van den Hurk is a Supervising Scientist in the Virology Section of Forensic and Scientific Services, Brisbane. He is also an Adjunct Associate Professor in the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland. His research interests are focused on the virology, entomology, ecology, surveillance and control of mosquito-borne pathogens, with an emphasis on arboviruses and their vectors. He is a national authority on working within high level containment virus laboratories and insectaries.
