Pediatrics ward, Kamuzu Central Hospital, Lilongwe, Malawi

Investigators in the Research Triangle have a long history of leading clinical, public health, and research efforts in infectious diseases. In recognition of these accomplishments, the Board of Governors of the University of North Carolina established the Center for HIV/STDs and Infectious Diseases at UNC-Chapel Hill (Center For Infectious Diseases).

Preventing and treating infectious diseases represents an ongoing challenge. We live in balance with microbes and parasites, many of which are capable of causing disease. In addition, emerging infections are caused by antibiotic-resistant microbes or species with recently acquired pathogenic potential. Maintaining awareness and developing effective treatments of these infections require coordinated research efforts.

Our mission is to advance clinical care, education, and research in HIV/STDs and other infectious diseases.

Other goals are:

• To coordinate basic and applied research in infectious diseases and fostering collaboration among other investigators and researchers
• To coordinate outreach activities with UNC's Gillings School of Global Public Health, department of epidemiology and appropriate state agencies
• To improve clinical care in infectious disease. This includes local activities related to management of HIV and other infectious disease; activities related to emerging pathogens, international health, and clinical outreach
• To prevent the spread of infectious diseases, with a focus on vaccine development and vaccination practices

The study of infectious diseases requires a different approach than other acquired or hereditary diseases. There is no possibility of eliminating infectious diseases; microorganisms will continue to evolve and produce disease. Therefore, the best strategy is to combine research efforts for understanding evolution, prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. The Center for Infectious Diseases at UNC represents many scientists from different disciplines who are all united in this common goal.