The Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics at HSPH is one of two "Centers of Excellence" and three research projects that will receive funding through the MIDAS program. The expected funding total for the Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics at HSPH is $15,572,000 over five years.

"The H1N1 flu pandemic has dramatically demonstrated the vital importance of identifying communicable diseases, understanding and preventing their spread, and protecting vulnerable populations to the best of our ability," said Julio Frenk, Dean of the Harvard School of Public Health. "This new Center will add to the country's capacity to deal with communicable diseases and advance expertise in the field."

Added Irene Eckstrand, who co-directs the MIDAS program at the National Institute of General Medical Sciences: "The MIDAS center at the Harvard School of Public Health will address the spread of infectious diseases in a real-world context, producing models that policymakers can use to better protect the public. The Center will also play a leading role in training the next generation of infectious disease modelers."

Source: Harvard School of Public Health