Waterborne and Vector-borne Disease

Our Research

In recent years, waterborne and vector-borne parasitic and bacterial diseases have emerged or re-emerged in many geographical regions, causing global health and economic problems. The ecology and epidemiology of waterborne and vector-borne diseases are affected by the interrelations between three main factors comprising the pathogen, the host, and the environment. Lincoln Centre for Water and Planetary Health researchers are interested in the potential impact of diseases on human health.

Historical Reconstruction of Epidemic Disease

Historical reconstruction of epidemic disease is important because it allows us to test the key factors associated with its spread, severity, and varying degrees of human susceptibility. Epidemic disease was reconstructed from parish registers of burials, particularly in areas where there was systematic recording of mortality in England. LCWPH researchers are interested in exploring the role of extreme weather events and climatic change in the outbreak, spread, and severity of epidemics.

Spatial Agent-Based Modelling of Malaria (ABM)

Understanding a landscape epidemiology system requires more than an understanding of the different types of individuals (host, vector, and pathogen) that comprise the system. It also requires understanding how the individuals interact with each other and with the environment. Two mosquito-control interventions were modelled using GIS and an ABM for a study site in Kenya. LCWPH researchers are interested in integrating data from social media and apps to create a dynamic ABM model.

Key Personnel and Expertise

Professor Mark Macklin - Mining and river processes

Professor Chris Thomas - spatial ecology

Dr Dilkushi de Alwis Pitts - Spatial analysis and modelling

Dr Matthew Hannaford - Disease history, documentary reconstruction, climate and disease.