Harmful Algal Bloom Epidemiologist
University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Hometown: Toledo, OH
Jordan Murray is a Harmful Algal Bloom Epidemiologist stationed at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Division of Public Health, where she manages the Harmful Algal Blooms Program. Her work entails prevention and control of harmful algal bloom-related illnesses through epidemiological research, case investigation, and outreach. She holds a BA in Neuroscience and a Masters in Public Health Epidemiology.
Talks:
Harmful Algal Blooms: A Public Health Issue
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are a natural part of Wisconsin’s water bodies. High temperatures and nutrients can promote the growth of cyanobacteria, resulting in what are known as cyanobacterial or harmful algal blooms (HABs). HABs are a public health concern because some cyanobacteria are capable of producing toxins that can make people and animals sick after they ingest, breathe in, or have contact with the water. The Wisconsin HAB Surveillance Program exists to prevent and manage blue-green algae related illnesses in Wisconsin with the ultimate goal to protect and promote the health of Wisconsin residents. Since its inception in 2009, our program has collected and investigated human and animal HAB-related illness complaints. This presentation will discuss the current state of knowledge regarding health effects associated with HAB toxin exposure, including new research about respiratory illnesses, and review how our program collects and investigates HAB-related health complaints. We’ll dive into classic case studies of human illnesses and showcase how we conduct outreach activities to improve awareness, understanding, and reporting of HABs and HAB-related illnesses.