Contact details
Professor Azra C Ghani
Chair in Infectious Disease Epidemiology
Division of Epidemiology, Public Health and Primary Care
Tel: +44 (0)20 7594 5764
Email:
Professor Azra C Ghani
My research combines the use of mathematical models and statistical methods to understand the transmission dynamics and control of a range of infectious diseases of humans and animals. The focus of my research is applied, developing both simple compartmental models and more complex individual-based models, to explore the impact of interventions and to help guide policy. In the past I have worked on a wide range of infectious diseases, including BSE and vCJD, sexually transmitted infections including HIV, and SARS.
The main focus of my current research is to develop models that can inform policies on how, where and when to implement different interventions against malaria to aid local elimination, and eventual eradication, of the parasite. This includes ongoing work to better understand the development and loss of acquired immunity to disease and the parasite in humans, patterns of human movement and their impact on disease dynamics and the impact of specific interventions including intermittent preventive therapy, artemisinin-combination therapies and vaccines. From a methodological perspective we are developing an individual-based spatially structured model framework that can be used to visualise and evaluate the impact of a variety of interventions to guide future policy decisions.
Other current projects include evaluation of the impact of different interventions (including vaccination and rest days in live-bird markets) on the spread of H5N1 avian influenza in the Mekong region of South East Asia, and the use of models to explore the impact of household-based intereventions against tuberculosis in Southern Africa.
I am interested in science communication and am in regular contact with the Science Media Centre and Sense About Science. I also give talks in schools on infectious diseases and the use of mathematical models.
Research Group
Dr Lucy Okell (based at LSHTM)
Mr Guillaume Fournie (based at Royal Veterinary College)
Mr Michael White
I teach on Imperial College's short course on Epidemiology and Control of Infectious Diseases. This is aimed at public health professionals, policy-makers and researchers who want to learn about the basic principles and practical applications of mathematical modelling and modern quantitative methods.
Short course on Epidemiology and Control of Infectious Diseases: www.infectiousdiseasemodels.org
