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Role of Hawaii in influenza transmission patterns
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Investigation into global influenza transmission patterns has been a topic of study for the past several years. Based on published studies, and supported by original research, it is evident influenza transmission involves a complex interaction of environment, social practices, human movement and viral evolution. Current literature indicates the importance of climate, including temperature and humidity, the potential importance of viral surveillance in swine and avian populations, and the role of selective pressures on influenza viral mutations. Previous studies have reported antigenic origins of flu virus initially develops in Southeast Asia, then spreads throughout the globe from there. This model specifically notes patterns of transmission through the Asian continent, and further to the Americas. However, the model does not comment on circulation of virus through the Pacific islands or the State of Hawaii, although Hawaii in particular often serves as an important crossroad between the Asian continent and the continental United States. This study explores the potential importance of the state of Hawaii in influenza transmission patterns. Based on travel information and peak influenza transmission periods reported by the Hawaii Department of Health, Hawaii could act as an important arena for the co-circulation of viruses from different points of origin (the United States and Asia), and specifically increase the potential for the recombination of different strains. We conclude by discussing the potential use of state surveillance information for research to further describe Pacific influenza transmission patterns.
Learning Areas:
Biostatistics, economics
Communication and informatics
Epidemiology
Protection of the public in relation to communicable diseases including prevention or control
Public health biology
Public health or related research
Learning Objectives:
Explain environmental and social factors, which influence influenza transmission patterns between Asia and North Ameria
Assess the potential role of Hawaii in influenza transmission dynamics
Keyword(s): Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have been involved in development and execution of this project in conjunction with research for my doctoral dissertation. I have also been studying influenza transmission in and through Hawaii for the past 5 years.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines,
and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed
in my presentation.