Research

Analyzing Transmission System Dynamics

This research involved analyzing transmission system dynamics in infectious agents and using genetic viral information in decision making in order to stop transmission of infectious agents.

HIV Risk Dynamics, Genetic Patterns, and Control

This project brings together data from Montreal and new theory from Detroit, Michigan to generate a new understanding of how HIV infection spreads, of how spreading patterns alter the effects of control programs, and of how genetic analyses can be used to predict control results in any particular population. The Montreal data shows a high rate of clustering in HIV genetic sequences from early infection but little clustering from late infection. The clusters represent active transmission chains that might be detected and interrupted. The Michigan theory shows that risk behavior fluctuations interact strongly with high PHI transmission to affect transmission dynamics, the pattern of clustering, and the effects of HIV transmission control programs. The pattern of HIV clustering should therefore help predict transmission control program effects.

Environmental Transmission Systems of Infectious Agents

The environment provides points for control of pathogens spread by food, water, hands, air, or fomites. These environmental transmission pathways require contact network formulations more realistically detailed than those based on social encounters or physical proximity. As a step toward improved assessment of environmental interventions, description of contact networks, and better use of environmental specimens to analyze transmission, an environmental infection transmission system model that describes the dynamics of human interaction with pathogens in the environment is being researched.

Analysis of MRSA Transmission in Hospital Settings

An individual-based environmental-mediated transmission model was developed for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) within an intensive care unit.

Immumization based Control of Infections

Quantitative Immunization and Vaccine-Related Research (QUIVER)

Research related to estimating the burden of vaccine-preventable disease, modeling of vaccine intervention, economic evaluations of vaccines, immunizations and related technologies and interventions. Research also includes understanding analystical components of operational and implementation research. Dr. Koopman's particular areas of research include polio, malaria and pertussis.