CHAIR
:
SPEAKER
(S):
Bob Becker, PhD, MBA, Vice President, Business Development , VaxInnate Corporation
Richard W. Compans, PhD, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and Director, Influenza Pathogenesis and Immunology Research Center , Emory University School of Medicine
Adolfo Garcia-Sastre, PhD, Professor, Department of Microbiology, Fischberg Professor, Department of Medicine and Co-Director, Emerging Pathogens Institute, Mount Sinai School of Medicine
James Stevens, PhD, Team Lead, Molecular Virology & Vaccines Branch, Influenza Division , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Description
"In 2007, NIH/NIAID awarded six Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance across the country. This panel will provide an overview of the centers, which are conducting critical research that will enhance our understanding of the influenza virus, disease intervention strategies and the human immune system's response to infection from the virus. The panel will also discuss ways in which this basic research could be translated into new vaccines and antivirals that will lessen the impact of seasonal influenza and ultimately improve our ability to prevent an influenza pandemic."
Objective1:Provide an overview of the public health threat posed by influenza and the continuing challenges of timely vaccine delivery.
Objective2:Describe the purpose and direction of the new NIAID Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance.
Objective3:Explore how this research can support an overall public health strategy and promote the development of new vaccines and treatments.