Maria Wajahat
Pronouns: She/her/Hers
Research Mentor(s): Kevin Bakker
Co-Presenter:
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Epidemiology / Public Health
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Film
Session: Session 1 – 10am – 10:50am
Room: Breakout Room 6
Authors: Maria Wajahat, Kevin Bakker
Presenter: 5
Abstract
Meningococci are a type of bacteria, known to cause meningitis, an inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Meningococci also cause a bloodstream infection called sepsis. Typically, meningococcal infections spread from person to person, primarily affecting infants, teens, and young adults. It most significantly affects those living in close quarters, or those who travel to areas where cases of meningococcal infection are common. Symptoms of this bacteria include flu-like symptoms and a stiff neck. The disease progresses rapidly and can be fatal if not treated early with antibiotics. Here we examine a spatiotemporal dataset of meningococcal infections from 1948 to 1977 across 144 countries to understand the seasonal patterns of infection across the globe. We expect this analysis, done in R, to assist public health officials in understanding the seasonal dynamics of the world in relation to meningococcal infections. This analysis will shed light on identifying high risk countries for meningococcal infections, as well as the role of latitude and season on the prevalence of disease.
Environmental Studies, Interdisciplinary, Public Health
