Author archives

Kacey C. Ernst, PhD MPH, joined the faculty of the University of Arizona in 2008 as an infectious disease epidemiologist. Her primary projects examine the environmental determinants of vector-borne disease transmission and control; primarily dengue and malaria. Current research projects include an examination of insecticide treated bednet use in western Kenya. Comparisons between determinants of use and effectiveness in highland and lowland areas are underway. She is also working with investigators in entomology to examine the role of Ae. aegypti population dynamics in the potential expansion of dengue from northern Mexico to southern Arizona under climate change scenarios. Locally, Dr. Ernst takes an active role in working with the local health departments to examine questions related to vaccine preventable diseases. Her work seeks to understand the reasons behind increasing vaccination exemption rates in Arizona and the development of programs to increase vaccination uptake.

5 things you should do right now to fight the rising number of COVID-19 cases

The increase of COVID-19 cases across the country calls for quick action that is repeatable, sustained and undertaken by the largest possible number of community participants. Prof. Kacey Ernst and graduate student Paulina Columbo, both of the University of Arizona, provide sound, actionable advice as we continue to navigate life during a pandemic.

Subjects: Education, Health, Healthcare, KM, Medical Research