Partnership Research Highlights

Since 1983, NAMRU SOUTH has conducted health science research studies across Central and South America. NAMRU SOUTH performs all its research activities in collaboration with hospitals affiliated with the respective countries’ Ministry of Health and Ministry of Defense.

Recent Accomplishments
 

• Avian Influenza

Influenza reservoir surveillance for emerging strains in wild birds and swine farms in Peru, including the first confirmation of a highly pathogenic avian influenza strain in Peru.
In 2022, NAMRU SOUTH provided advanced characterization capabilities to the Servicio Nacional de Sanidad Agraria del Peru confirming the first known case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Peru. To date, NAMRU SOUTH continues to support the Peruvian government’s response to this outbreak.
 

• Identification of Pathogens Causing Fever

Ongoing longitudinal acute febrile illness and acute respiratory illness cohorts in Peru, Honduras, and Colombia to determine incidence and prevalence of infectious diseases critical for force health protection and DoD product development.
 

• Influenza surveillance

Longitudinal surveillance of incidence of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 among Peruvian healthcare workers.
 

• Hospital acquired infections and anti-microbial resistance

Characterization of hospital acquired infections in Lima and anti-microbial resistance of isolates across Central and South America.
 

• COVID Pandemic Support

Supported USSOUTHCOM, Peruvian Navy, first responders, Ministry of Health and US Embassy in detection, characterization, and evaluation of treatment modalities for SARS-CoV-2.
NAMRU SOUTH provided extensive laboratory testing for COVID-19 to the Peruvian Navy and the MOH, especially throughout the early stages of the pandemic.  The Peruvian Navy and the Callao Bellavista Fire Station were able to quickly isolate and treat CEMENA medical staff due to the testing results.  The collaboration continued throughout the pandemic and provided direct support to the Peruvian Navy by testing samples for SARS-CoV-2.  Additionally, NAMRU SOUTH provided technical expertise in COVID-19 convalescent plasma treatment to the Peruvian Naval Medical Hospital.  Lastly, NAMRU SOUTH assisted MOH in the development and validation of the neutralizing antibodies test and production of polyclonal antibodies.

Research Locations