Understanding how diseases spread between humans and animals
Official title: Disease transmission along complex human-animal networks: a novel method for improving zoonotic disease modeling
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10934148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how people and animals interact in ways that can spread diseases from animals to humans, and it's designed to help public health officials find better ways to stop these diseases from spreading and prevent future outbreaks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $720,456 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI184331-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10934148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas where zoonotic diseases are prevalent or those who have frequent contact with animals.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any exposure to animals or live in regions with low incidence of zoonotic diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between humans and animals that contribute to the spread of zoonotic diseases, which are diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans. By analyzing contact networks using real-world data, the study aims to improve the modeling of disease transmission and enhance public health responses. The researchers will focus on endemic zoonoses, using data from various high-burden diseases to demonstrate the feasibility of their approach. This innovative methodology seeks to provide better insights into how to interrupt disease transmission and prevent future outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective strategies for preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases, ultimately protecting public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in human-only and livestock-only networks has shown success in understanding disease transmission, suggesting that this novel approach could also yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meisner, Julianne — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Meisner, Julianne
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.