John Aaskov

Research areas

Population dynamics of dengue viruses: Populations of dengue viruses in humans and mosquitoes are very diverse. We are studying the nature and magnitude of this diversity to see how it influences patterns of disease and to identify the challenges it poses for vaccines.

Ross River virus vaccine: Ross River virus is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in Australia and has caused a major epidemic in the Pacific. Ross River virus infection costs the Australian Health system more than $10 million each year. We have developed a vaccine against this disease and propose to begin clinical trials with a clinical partner in 2008. We also are undertaking the basic research that will underpin the strategy for the use of this vaccine.