Newswise — As it spreads throughout South and Central America and beyond, Zika presents a unique challenge to health officials and to the public. University of Maryland School of Medicine infectious disease specialists can offer insight into the virus, its potential hazards, and the possibility that it may spread to the U.S.

Dr. Matthew Laurens, associate professor at the Institute for Global Health’s Center for Vaccine Development. He has worked throughout the world on vaccines for malaria and other diseases. He is a doctor in the school’s travel clinic, which advises and treats people who are planning to travel, or have traveled, overseas. He has a deep knowledge of Zika.Dr. Kathleen Neuzil, director of the Center for Vaccine Development, also has a wealth of experience on infectious diseases around the world. She is an expert in the study of viral vaccines, and has led trials of influenza, rotavirus, Japanese encephalitis virus and other vaccines.

To get in touch with them, please contact our public affairs office:David KohnDirector of Medicine and Science CommunicationsUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine[email protected]410.706.7590 o