Australian Researcher in International Virus Research
A University of Canberra Professor has been awarded approximately half a million dollars to continue vital medical research.
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Joint Release
THE HON Mark Butler MP
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing
DR Andrew Leigh MP
Member for Fraser
5 November 2010
A University of Canberra Professor has been awarded approximately half a million dollars to continue vital medical research.
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing Mark Butler, and Member for Fraser Dr Andrew Leigh today announced that Professor Suresh Mahalingam will receive a National Health and Medical Research Council - European Union grant of $494,022 over three years from the National Health and Medical Research Council.
“The grant, funded by the Gillard Government, will allow Professor Mahalingam to contribute to the international effort to tackle the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV),” Mr Butler said.
“Although not well known in Australia, CHIKV is a mosquito borne virus that causes fever, rashes, intense headaches and severe joint inflammation. Recovery in adults takes around one to two and a half months with joint pain known to last up to two years.”
Dr Andrew Leigh said: “This research is part of an international project which will focus on co-ordinating research efforts to enhance monitoring and surveillance of CHIKV, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
“Findings will contribute to the broader fight against viruses, the most dangerous and easily transmitted infectious agent.”
The NHMRC – EU scheme supports Australian participation in leading international collaborative research under the EU Seventh Framework Program. The Australian grant will support the health research project co-funded by the European Commission, and carried out within Australian and European research institutions.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Minister Butler’s Office 02 6277 7280
Shobaz Kandola, Mr Leigh’s Office, 0421 838 038
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