Accessing Research Grants in Maine's Lyme Country
GrantID: 11420
Grant Funding Amount Low: $1,500,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $3,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Research on Lyme Disease Transmission Patterns in Maine
Maine, with its extensive woodlands, coastal regions, and fluctuating climate, presents a unique challenge when it comes to managing the spread of Lyme disease. According to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the state reported more than 3,000 confirmed and probable cases of Lyme disease in 2021, making it one of the states with the highest incidence rates in the nation. The geographic spread, coupled with changing habitat conditions due to climate change, has exacerbated the transmission dynamics of this tick-borne illness.
Local residents, particularly those living in rural and semi-rural areas, face the greatest risk of Lyme disease transmission. Maine's population is characterized by rural settlements where close contact with nature increases exposure to ticks. Additionally, seasonal residents and tourists who engage in outdoor activities are also at risk, contributing to the complexity of public health messaging in Maine. The interplay between residential characteristics and environmental factors demands a localized understanding to effectively combat the disease's spread.
This targeted funding opportunity aims to support research that examines the ecological, evolutionary, organismal, and social drivers influencing Lyme disease transmission in Maine. By engaging local communities in data collection efforts, the initiative seeks to leverage the insights of residents regarding environmental changes and their perceived risk of Lyme disease. The research findings will be instrumental in informing public health strategies tailored specifically for Maine, enabling health officials to craft interventions that resonate with the state's unique ecological landscape.
The outcomes of this research program are critical for public health in Maine, where Lyme disease continues to represent a significant health burden. Enhanced understanding of transmission dynamics will lead to improved preventative measures that are both scientifically grounded and community-specific. Focusing on the ecological aspects enables the identification of risk factors linked to deer and tick populations, while the social components will help tailor communication strategies that facilitate community engagement and awareness.
Emergency preparedness in the context of Lyme disease will also be enhanced by this research initiative. By improving the data on transmission patterns, public health officials will be better prepared to respond rapidly to outbreaks. This proactive approach aligns with Maine’s commitment to safeguarding public health while respecting the community's unique ecological context. Research findings will directly inform local policies and educational campaigns aimed at minimizing Lyme disease incidence, thereby protecting Maine’s residents and visitors alike.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
