John Drake

2 weeks ago | biorxiv.org | Brian S. Maitner |Robert Richards |Ben Carlson |John Drake

Abstract1. Species distribution models (SDMs) are used for understanding where species live or could potentially live and are a key resource for ecological research and conservation decision-making. However, current SDM methods often perform poorly for rare or inadequately sampled species, which includes most species on earth as well as most of those of the greatest conservation concern. 2.

2 months ago | forbes.com | John Drake

Elbert County, with its sprawling woodlands and farmland in Georgia’s Piedmont, is a hub of rural life and agriculture. But the recent detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in two commercial poultry operations has cast a shadow over this landscape. This latest outbreak is part of a broader epizootic that has swept across the United States, affecting not only poultry but also wild birds, mammals, and humans.

Jan 20, 2025 | forbes.com | John Drake

A Hidden Death Toll from HurricanesWhen Hurricane Helene swept through Florida, it claimed dozens of lives. There were twelve in Pinellas County alone, eleven from drowning and one from an electrical fire caused by flooding. What these numbers don’t include is that in subsequent weeks another five people in Charlotte, Pasco, and Pinellas counties died due to infections from Vibrio vulnificus, a deadly bacterium that thrives in the aftermath of storms.

Dec 30, 2024 | forbes.com | John Drake

We didn’t face a new global pandemic in 2024, but the year was filled with reminders that zoonotic diseases—diseases that people get from animals—are a constant and evolving challenge. Here’s a rundown of some of the events of 2024. Avian Influenza (H5N1) OutbreaksThe H5N1 avian influenza virus continued its global spread, notably infecting several new mammal species, which wasn’t unheard of before, but has now become much more common.

Dec 12, 2024 | forbes.com | John Drake

Tens of thousands of Lyme disease cases are reported in the United States each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, the actual number of infections is likely several times higher. In fact, Lyme disease is now the most common vector-borne illness in the country. But nobody actually knows how common it is. Recent studies by the CDC are beginning to shed light on why that is.