Understanding how environmental factors influence the spread of West Nile virus
Official title: Modeling biotic and environmental drivers of seasonal West Nile virus transmission
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11138594 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the West Nile virus spreads in different areas, like cities and countryside, by tracking mosquitoes and birds throughout the year, so we can better understand how the virus comes back each spring and help keep people safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $714,483 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI188567-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138594 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals living in urban areas with a higher risk of West Nile virus exposure, particularly during the summer months.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living in rural areas with minimal exposure to mosquitoes or those who are not at risk for West Nile virus infection may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the seasonal patterns of West Nile virus (WNV) transmission, focusing on how urban and rural environments affect the virus's spread among mosquitoes and birds. By developing predictive models, the research aims to identify the key factors that drive WNV transmission cycles throughout the year. The team will collect high-resolution field data from various locations in Ohio to analyze mosquito and avian populations and their interactions with the virus. This comprehensive approach seeks to enhance our understanding of how WNV reinitiates transmission each spring.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for predicting and controlling West Nile virus outbreaks, ultimately protecting public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using predictive modeling to understand the dynamics of arboviral diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meuti, Megan Elizabeth — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Meuti, Megan Elizabeth
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.