Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), Cameroon: Understanding chikungunya virus adaptation and transmission dynamics in Cameroon

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a significant public health challenge in sub- Saharan Africa, where its transmission dynamics and adaptation mechanisms are poorly understood. This is concerning, given that CHIKV has caused outbreaks across Africa, with the potential for rapid spread and severe health consequences. The virus's capacity for adaptation to different mosquito vectors, notably Aedes albopictus, could substantially alter transmission patterns and expand the geographical range of CHIKV. Climate change also impacts mosquito vector distribution and CHIKV transmission dynamics, thereby necessitating proactive research to understand and mitigate these effects. Limited diagnostic capabilities in resource-constrained settings like Cameroon is another challenge, emphasizing the need for improved detection methods to facilitate timely surveillance and outbreak control. We aim to address this knowledge gap by i-analyzing CHIKV genetic diversity and its prevalence in patients with acute febrile illness, and Aedes mosquitoes in Cameroon, ii- assessing Aedes mosquitoes vector competence and transmission factors (viral, mosquito), and iii-evaluating the diagnostic performance of Reverse Transcriptase Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP) to detect CHIKV. This study will provide critical knowledge to guide targeted interventions, improve diagnostic tools, and strengthen overall preparedness against future CHIKV outbreaks.

Programme: Early-Career Award

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