Infectious Disease
The Division of Infectious Diseases is involved in laboratory diagnostics, outbreak analysis and research on diseases of public health importance. The vast majority of infectious agents/diseases can be identified in these laboratories including West Nile virus, cryptosporidium, rabies, novel H1N1 influenza, botulism, anthrax and E. coli 0157:H7. Scientists also develop and validate unique molecular-based tests to provide rapid and sensitive testing methods for infectious agents. In collaboration with the Division of Epidemiology, modern molecular fingerprinting methods are employed to identify the sources of foodborne, waterborne and bloodborne diseases. Surveillance testing is performed to monitor the spread of West Nile virus as well as other emerging diseases such as methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Externally funded research on infectious diseases includes mechanisms of pathogenesis, microbial genetics, pathogen transmission and host responses. Division researchers also investigate cellular and molecular aspects of organ systems, including endocrine, immune and nervous system, for disease mechanisms.
Contact Information
Infectious Diseases
Administrative Office:
Tel: (518) 474-4177
Fax: (518) 473-1326
Infectious Diseases Requisition Form (fillable)
2010 Laboratory Reporting of Communicable Diseases