​Integrated Research Training on Vector Borne Diseases in Pakistan: Vector Biology, Virology and Epidemiology

VBD Professionals Learning Network in Pakistan

D43 Fogarty International Centre -NIH US

Workshop Title

Responsible Conduct of Science, Biosafety, and Bioethics in Vector Borne Disease Research

Date

21-23rd August 2024

Activity Director

Dr Erum Khan​


This workshop provided a valuable platform for scientists and researchers engaged in vector-borne disease research. Participants gained in-depth knowledge from renowned experts in the field, focusing on practical tools for conducting risk assessments in both laboratory and field settings. Additionally, the workshop also included topics such as responsible conduct of science DNA recombination, synthetic biology, select agents and bioethics.​



Workshop Title

Addressing Vector-Borne Disease Research Priorities: A ONE Health Approach

Date

4-5th October 2024

Activity Director

Dr. Faisal Mahmood

 

Highlights:

Designed to equip participants with practical knowledge, this workshop focused on understanding vector-borne diseases from a global perspective. Topics included disease presentation, epidemiology, and prevention strategies for both human and animal health. Additionally, participants learned how to define research goals and identify areas for collaborative research across different disciplines. Global overview of VBD


Workshop Title

Fundamentals of Mathematical Modelling in Vector-Borne Disease control

Date

9-10th October 2024

Activity Director

Dr. Bilal Usmani

 

Highlights:

The mathematical modeling workshop centered on the intersection of disease epidemiology and ecology. It delved into key topics such as exponential growth, exhaustion of susceptible, equilibrium or recurrent epidemics. Participants were equipped to develop mathematical models, validate and calibrate them, and gain insights into the limitations of employing mathematical models in this field.


Workshop Title

Implementation Science for Vector Borne Disease Control: Learning for Action to overcome key challenges in VBD control

Date

10th October 2024

Activity Director

Dr. Sadia Shakoor

 

Highlights:

Participants were introduced to the concepts of implementation science and Implementation Science research processes. They gained in-depth knowledge of this field through application & scenario-based learning exercises. Participants were encouraged to explore challenges in controlling VBD & deconstructing the black box of implementation science and translating research findings into effective public health interventions.​



Workshop Title​

Vector Borne Disease: Sero-surveillance and Immune Marker Studies

Date

9-10th October 2024

Activity Director

Dr. Najeeha Iqbal

 

Highlights:

Participants gained a foundational understanding of immunology, focusing on the innate and adaptive immune responses to viruses. Practical sessions demonstrated ELISA-based diagnostics, including interpretation and reporting. Additionally, participants explored the advantages and disadvantages of advanced diagnostic techniques and alternative approaches to serological diagnostics in the context of arboviruses.​




Workshop Title​

Vector Surveillance Research Training: Methods for Vector collection,
Identification Pathogen detection

Date

9-11th October 2024

Activity Director

Dr. Erum Khan & Dr. Najia Ghanchi

 

Highlights:

The Vector Surveillance workshop provided comprehensive training on medically significant vectors. Participants learned about vector identification, classification, and collection techniques through practical demonstrations of mosquito trapping. They also delved into laboratory procedures for detecting pathogens in vectors and assessing insecticide resistance in mosquitoes.