West African Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11616349 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A national West African collaboration is studying how dangerous viruses spread between animals and people, with the goal of improving prevention and response.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $162,000 |
| NIH project number | 3U01AI151801-06S5 |
| Project ID | NIH-11616349 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants include communities in West Africa where zoonotic viruses circulate, patients with acute infectious diseases, and individuals involved in surveillance or care for suspected outbreaks.
✕Less likely to help
There is no direct benefit for individuals not connected to surveillance or affected by the studied outbreaks.
What this research studies
This project partners with sites in West Africa to study how zoonotic viruses emerge and spread, including humans, livestock, and the environment. It uses field surveillance, vector monitoring, and clinical data to understand transmission and outcomes. The effort aims to build preparedness in Africa and the U.S. by translating findings into practical public health actions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could improve early warning, prevention, and control of emerging infections that could affect communities in Africa and beyond.
How similar studies have gone: Prior field studies have advanced understanding of zoonotic spillover, but continued, region-specific surveillance is needed for stronger preparedness.
Where this research is happening
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University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cross, Robert W — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Cross, Robert W
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.