Understanding how human behavior affects the spread of diseases like Ebola and measles.

Measuring human behavior and ecological dimensions of pathogen transmission for outbreak control and prevention

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11011331

This study looks at how people's movements and their surroundings affect the spread of measles and Ebola in the Équateur province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming to find better ways to prevent and manage these diseases, especially for health teams working in the area.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011331 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connections between human behavior, environmental factors, and the transmission of infectious diseases, specifically focusing on measles and Ebola in the Équateur province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. By analyzing patterns of human mobility and health geography, the project aims to identify how these factors contribute to disease outbreaks. The findings will help develop strategies for disease prevention and management, particularly for mobile health teams working in the region. The research will also address issues related to health data quality, which is crucial for effective public health interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in or near the Équateur province of the Democratic Republic of Congo who are at risk for measles or Ebola.

Not a fit: Patients living outside the Democratic Republic of Congo or those not at risk for measles or Ebola may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for controlling and preventing outbreaks of measles and Ebola, ultimately saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using interdisciplinary approaches to understand disease transmission, making this a promising area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

University Park, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Communicable DiseasesDiseaseDisease Outbreaksdisease preventionDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.