Vector Ecology subgroup (Vector Group)

The Vector Group at KU has conducted research on vectors and vector-borne diseases since 2019 at the University of Copenhagen and from 2006 to 2018 at The National Veterinary Institute, Danish Technical University (DTU).

We work with predictive modelling of vector distribution, vector abundance and vector-borne pathogen prevalence using remote sensing MODIS data and environmental data, machine learning algorithms, mechanistic models and GIS.

The Vector Group furthermore plays a central role in the national surveillance of vectors through the DK-VET contingency work, where we collect vector-related data and ensure its accessibility through Myggetal.dk. Additionally, the Vector Group is involved with risk assessment of emerging and zoonotic pathogens in Denmark and provides analysis for decision support at the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration regarding vectors and vector-borne pathogens.

Vector group members

The Vector Group at the European Network for Neglected Vectors and Vector-Borne Infections (EURNEGVEC) conference, Zaragoza, Spain, 2016. 

The Vector Group presenting at the NordTick conference, Nyborg, Denmark, 2024.

 

 

 

 

  • Jonno Stelder (2019-2022)
  • Najmul Haider (2016-2018)
  • Ana Caroline Cuellar (2016-2018)
  • Carsten Kirkeby (2010-2013)

 

 

  • Frederiksberg Hospital
  • Linköping University    
  • Norwegian Institute of Public Health
  • Norwegian University of Life Sciences
  • Odense University Hospital
  • Region Jönköping County
  • Roskilde University
  • Statens Veterinärmedicinska Anstalt Sweden
  • Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
  • Sørlandet Hospital Health Enterprise
  • Technical University of Denmark
  • University of Agder
  • University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca
  • University of Leipzig
  • University of Veterinary Medicine Cluj, Romania
  • Örebro University                    

 

 

Alpha-gal: Red meat allergy in Denmark: an underrecognized cause of urticaria, angioedema and delayed allergic shock (2022-2024):

This project is a collaboration with Bispebjerg Hospital and is funded by the Independent Research Fund Denmark. Red meat allergy, caused by the carbohydrate alpha-gal in beef, pork, and lamb, is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by hives and anaphylaxis hours after ingestion. Its prevalence in Denmark is unclear, but evidence suggests a link to tick bites. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment—avoidance of red meat. The aim of the project is to enhance diagnosis and treatment by identifying at-risk populations in Denmark, and involves:

1) Epidemiological, clinical, and register-based studies to determine prevalence, trends, and risk factors.

2) Spatial predictive modelling of risk-factors and hotspots of high prevalence to geographically identify and pinpoint at-risk populations in Denmark. 

OH4Surveillance 2024-2027:

EU (HaDEA) funded project in collaboration with 19 other partners in Europe. Here we run an intensive West Nile virus surveillance program in Denmark and develop mechanistic virus transmission models to identify the optimal surveillance strategies (risk based surveillance).

 

 

Peer reviewed publications

Popular science publications and reports

 

 

Group information

GROUP LEADER

Rene Bødker
e-mail: rebo@sund.ku.dk

Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences
University of Copenhagen
Grønnegårdsvej 8
DK-1870 Frederiksberg Campus
Denmark

CONTACT
Lene Jung Kjær
e-mail: lenju@sund.ku.dk
Phone: +45 35337290              

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Group members

Name Title Phone E-mail
Anne Marie Michelsen Academic Research Staff +4535322475 E-mail
Lene Jung Kjær Associate Professor +4535337290 E-mail
René Bødker Senior Researcher +4535325262 E-mail