“The molecular epidemiology of the zoonotic Wesselsbron virus in Kenya.”
Country of Study
Kenya
Institution
Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Expected Year of Completion
2027
Thematic Area
Health and Life Sciences
Education
Kelly holds a Master’s degree in Cell Biology from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), China. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Microbiology at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya, and has completed her coursework and successfully defended her research proposal. Kelly is expected to defend her dissertation in May 2027, with graduation in August 2027.
Research Summary
Kelly’s research focuses on the molecular epidemiology of Wesselsbron virus (WSLV), a neglected mosquito-borne flavivirus, transmitted primarily by Culex and Aedes mosquitoes. The virus affects ruminants like sheep and goats, and occasionally humans, with reports of cases in South Africa, Central African Republic, and Senegal. Despite its impact, there is limited data on the virus’s transmission dynamics, mosquito vectors, and reservoirs. Kelly’s study in Kenya aims to fill this gap by analyzing blood samples from mosquitoes, ruminants, and humans to better understand the virus’s epidemiology and transmission pathways. This research is crucial for improving disease control, preparedness, and the development of treatments and vaccines, addressing the growing threat posed by arboviruses due to climate change and increasing human-animal interactions.
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