UQ experts ready to comment on swine flu

UQ scientists and academics are available for expert comment on the emerging swine flu pandemic. Expertise ranges from the science of virus, to the medical implications, to the tourism and economic implications.

Vaccines and Viruses
Professor Anton Middelberg (0434 603 093), from UQ’s Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, is an expert on vaccines and the current flu vaccination situation in Australia.

Professor Paul Young (07 3365 4646), Professor Ross Barnard (0410 494 472) and Associate Professor Roy Hall (07 3365 4647), from UQ’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, are virologists who can talk about what a flu virus actually is and what it can do.

Population Health
Professor Maxine Whittaker (07 3365 5395), Director of UQ’s Australian Centre for International and Tropical Health, can discuss our capacity to keep the population safe from the spread of this type of disease; preparedness in our region; what type of public health experts are battling behind the scenes; impact on the health system; the need to avoid complacency; the importance of surveillance measures; the critical role of improved hygiene.

Tourism
Associate Professor Steve Craig-Smith (07 3381 1007), from UQ’s School of Tourism can comment on the implications for the tourism industry.

Medicine
Associate Professor Joe McCormack (07 3163 8798), from UQ’s School of Medicine, is an expert on the clinical aspects and treatment for viruses.

Veterinary Science
Dr Chris Parke (0428 793 503 or 07 5460 1384), from UQ’s School of Veterinary Science, is an expert on animal viruses can comment on swine flu.

Pharmacy
Dr Lisa Nissen (07 3365 2868 or 0412 007 089) is an expert on pharmacists and use of medicines.

Economics
Professor John Quiggin (0432 551 381 or 07 3346 9646,) is one of Australia’s leading economists and can comment on the economic implications of swine flu.

Media: Andrew Dunne at UQ Communications (07 3365 2802 or 0433 364 181).