Chronic Viral Diseases Branch

Our Work Epidemiologic & Laboratory Research CVDB conducts multidisciplinary, population-based studies to investigate the clinical and molecular epidemiology of both CFS and HPV. • The CFS program studies the prevalence, gene structure and expression, and characteristics of patients with CFS or myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The CFS program also studies the economic burden associated with CFS including lost productivity and healthcare expenditures. (See story below) • The HPV program includes the development and implementation of state-of-the-art assays to assess the impact of HPV vaccination in the U.S. and to evaluate altered dosing schedules and vaccine effectiveness in special populations. HPV program also conducts studies to identify epidemiological, viral and host genetic factors that could be used to improve cervical cancer screening. Expert Consultation CVDB provides subject matter experts in ME/CFS and HPV to national and international organizations. The branch provides input on ME/CFS issues to the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) through Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Advisory Committee (CFSAC) meetings with the Assistant Secretary for Health. CVDB consults and collaborates with WHO and PAHO to improve laboratory capacity for HPV testing through training and standardization of assays, participates in the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) workgroup on HPV and has served on FDA advisory committees on HPV vaccine and testing issues. Electron micrograph of HPV viral-like particles (VLP).