January 4, 2018

Billions of people, and billions of their animals, still harbor infections with various types of parasitic worms (helminths). These infections are not usually acutely lethal, but they reduce growth and productivity and contribute to the cycle of poverty. Impressive achievements in the development of new strategies for parasite control have led to the near eradication of human infections with the Guinea Worm (Dracunculus medinensis) from the world. What factors prevent people from repeating this successful campaign? This lecture explores the current landscape of helminth infections and the options available for improving lives through their control and elimination.

Speakers
Timothy Geary, Canada Research Chair in Parasite Biotechnology; Institute Director, McGill University