Emerging Infectious Diseases and Health Emergencies: Estimating the prevalence of the bacteria pneumonia and COVID-19 diseases, and quantifying COVID-19 impacts on vulnerable population such as opioid overdose for effective monitoring and planning.

My research aims to assist the Canadian government in combating emerging infectious diseases and protecting vulnerable populations. My research will focus on two infectious diseases, COVID-19 and bacterial pneumonia, and their impact on vulnerable populations, particularly those at risk of opioid overdose. My research will involve accurately enumerating the prevalence of infectious diseases, including undetected cases of COVID-19, and shifts in serotypes of Streptococcal pneumococcus. The impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable populations will be investigated, and a predictive model for opioid overdose will be developed based on observed patterns of change in opioid use and overdose. My research aims to contribute to the development of effective strategies to prevent and manage infectious diseases, leading to improved health outcomes for Canadians. Ultimately, my research will provide valuable insights into reducing the economic impact of COVID-19 in Canada by identifying services that may be at risk of virus transmissions as against total lockdown of services which has ripple effects on economy and leads to limited access to medical treatments of unrelated COVID-19 diseases.