Analyzing Diagnostic Networks

Improving Early Detection of Yellow Fever

Timely diagnosis and containment are necessary to prevent infectious disease epidemics. Analyzing the diagnostic network for yellow fever in Ghana, we found that while specimens are collected in a timely manner, there are significant delays in specimen arrival for testing. This highlights the need for improved transportation or alternative testing pathways to improve outbreak detection.

Judson SD, Schroeder L, Asiedu-Bekoe F, et al. Timeliness of Yellow Fever Specimen Collection and Transport in Ghana, 2018-2022. 2025; :2025.06.19.25329877. Available at: https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.06.19.25329877v1.

Data reporting for Pandemic Preparedness

Early on during the COVID-19 pandemic we compared data reporting systems across African countries and learned key lessons for improving data reporting practices for pandemic preparedness.

Judson, S., Torimiro, J., Pigott, D., Maima, A., Mostafa, A., Samy, A., Rabinowitz P., Njabo, K. (2022). COVID-19 data reporting systems in Africa reveal insights for future pandemics. Epidemiology and Infection, 1-22. doi:10.1017/S0950268822001054

Building equitable local & global partnerships

Training in Data Science and Spatial Epidemiology

Novel tools such as AI/machine learning provide opportunities for improving disease surveillance and resource allocation. We developed a partnership with the Ghana Health Service and University of Ghana to train local public health scientists in data science, spatial epidemiology, and modeling of climate-sensitive diseases. These skills have also enabled public health practitioners to address other local health inequities, such as improving access to healthcare.