Research on animal-borne parasites and pathogens helps prevent human disease

Abstract

Abstract: A large body of basic and applied research conducted at the Hopland Research and Extension Center has focused on micro- or macroparasites that infest humans, domestic animals and wildlife, including viruses, bacteria, protozoans, helminths, and blood-sucking arthropods. Approximately 17 microorganisms detected at the HREC are transmitted by ticks, and of these, at least 5 cause zoonotic diseases-- animal-borne diseases that can be transmitted to people. Scientists working at the HREC identified the basic transmission cycle of the Lyme disease spirochete in the far-western United States. This information now is being used to develop and implement risk-assessment and preventative strategies. This paper discusses some of the novel parasitological findings emanating from investigations of macroparasites of deer. The value of Hopland as a long-term field study site for epidemiology is emphasized.