We have several projects we are working on.

innovative education 

Working with Dr. Julie Huthmaker the Dengue Relief Foundation supported her creation of an animated book to teach children how to protect themselves from dengue fever. Children are especially vulnerable and numerous educational campaigns targeting this population have proven effective in decreasing larval indices and improving knowledge. Educational animations, used successfully in other public heath campaigns, however had not been researched in dengue campaigns. Dr. Huthmaker tested her animated book “Dengue Fever Comes to Town” and it proved effective at improving knowledge, attitude and practice in 3rd to 5th graders. School officials should consider inclusion of the animation in Florida science curricula. Animation can be a cost effective, sustainable, educational tool, with potentially wide-ranging public health utility. “Dengue Fever Comes to Town” is now available on YouTube.

Diagnostics projects 

The Dengue Relief Foundation is currently investigating the accuracy of a novel diagnostic tool that uses oral fluid to diagnose dengue. Simple diagnostics using oral fluid can be used to improve dengue diagnosis in areas with decreased access to health care.  

The development of real time mapping 

The Dengue Relief Foundation is partnering with Vector Analytica, Inc. to employ the widespread use of  real time internet platform Dengue Data Synergy, Dengue Droid, and Trash Watch to manage the public health response to dengue outbreaks.