Dave Wessner is a professor of biology and public health at Davidson College. Since 2020, he has been covering the Covid-19 pandemic, HIV/AIDS, and other topics related to infectious diseases and social determinants of health. Wessner teaches courses on introductory biology, microbiology, Covid-19, and HIV/AIDS. His research interests include viral pathogenesis. He recently co-authored Microbiology, a textbook for undergraduate biology majors, and The Cartoon Guide to Biology. Prior to joining the faculty at Davidson, Dave conducted research at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD. He earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Harvard University and his B.A. in Biology from Franklin and Marshall College. Follow Wessner for continued updates about issues related to public health.
Flesh-Eating Screwworm Case Reported In U.S. What You Should Know About This Parasite
A case of New World screwworm infestation was confirmed by HHS and CDC officials. Once eradicated from the U.S., this pest could return, affecting humans and livestock.
Measles Outbreak In Texas Has Officially Ended, But The Threat Remains
Texas Department of State Health Services announced that the measles outbreak affecting the state has ended. But they noted that the threat remains.
New Executive Order Could Thwart Efforts To End HIV
New executive order targets evidence-based harm reduction strategies like syringe services programs. Experts worry that the changes could thwart efforts to end HIV.
Measles Cases At A 33 Year High, According To CDC Report
Measles cases in the U.S. have reached a 33 year high, despite the availability of a safe, effective vaccine. The spread of misinformation has fueled this increase.
รovid-19 Disease Burden Remains Greater Than Influenza, Study Shows
By comparing rates of hospitalization and death among people with COVID-19 and influenza, investigators concluded that COVID-19 still has a greater disease burden.
COVID-19 Vaccine For Healthy Children And Pregnant Women Cut From Immunization Schedule, RFK Jr. Announces
The CDC will no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for healthy pregnant women and children. Experts criticize the change, especially as the new NB.1.8.1 variant surges.
COVID-19 Pandemic At 5: Will Funding Cuts Hinder Our Future Preparedness?
The COVID-19 pandemic seemed to begin all at once in 2020. But therapeutics quickly became available. Proposed cuts to the NIH could hinder our response rate next time.
Texas Child Dies Of Measles As Fears Grow Of Outbreakโs Spread
An unvaccinated child has died as the Texas measles outbreak reaches 124 cases. Public health officials also warn of potential spread in San Marcos and San Antonio.
Measles Outbreak In Texas Reaches 58 Cases
A measles outbreak continues in Texas, with 58 cases now reported. Most of the cases are in children and people who are not vaccinated.
Texas Measles Cases Double Since Tuesday, Health Officials Report
Texas health officials now report 48 cases of measles, with 13 hospitalizations, mostly among children. All are unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown.