With the advent of global travel and commerce, new diseases such as SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and West Nile Virus have entered the country and threaten the health of Americans. At the same time, diseases once considered under control, such as tuberculosis and Dengue fever, have re-emerged onto the national health scene. Additionally, the country faces the ongoing threat of biological agents spread through terrorism.

Currently in the United States, there are few places with the research capability to combat these diseases. In response to this urgent need, Oregon Health & Science University has formed the Pacific Rim Vaccine Initiative (PRVI). The goals of the PRVI are to design new vaccines and treatments, improve existing vaccines, and to find new ways to detect disease outbreaks. This effort will build upon OHSU's expertise in virology & immunology. The PRVI will also assist in responding to national health emergencies.

Learn more about the research, proposed facilities and their benefits using the links above.