NAMRU INDO PACIFIC Honored, Showcases Cutting-Edge Research at MHSRS 2024

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Researchers with the Naval Medical Research Unit (NAMRU) INDO PACIFIC have been honored with the 2024 Outstanding Research Accomplishment Team Award. The award was presented during the Military Health System Research Symposium (MHSRS) on August 26.

Recognized for their work on the Long-Term Immunity Against Novel and Known Strains of SARS-CoV-2 (LINKS-COVID) Study, the NAMRU researchers have made significant strides in understanding COVID-19 immunity. Their research addresses whether the Department of Defense (DoD) should recommend a booster shot specifically formulated to target the latest SARS-CoV-2 variants.

“The DoD can’t compel individuals to get the booster,” stated Capt. Andrew Letizia, the science director from NAMRU INDO PACIFIC, “but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises it for all Americans over six months old.”

Findings highlighted significant differences in immunity levels. Service members who had no SARS-CoV-2 exposure via vaccination or natural infection within 12 months had markedly lower antibody levels against current variants, compared to those exposed within the past year.

Capt. Jonathan Stahl, former commanding officer for NAMRU INDO PACIFIC, accepted the award on behalf of the team. Stahl recently retired after 30 years of service with the U.S. Navy.

“Having Capt. Stahl accept the award was exciting, given his leadership,” added Capt. Nicholas Martin, current commanding officer of NAMRU INDO PACIFIC. “We’re starting the next phase of the study this month and anticipate more positive outcomes.”

Lt. Huy Nguyen, principal investigator for the study, expressed his thanks to NAMRU INDO PACIFIC leadership and the team for their dedication. “Everyone’s efforts were crucial to the project’s success, and it’s humbling to see our hard work recognized,” Nguyen noted.

Letizia also moderated a breakout session on the final day of MHSRS, focusing on emerging diseases of military importance. Topics included blood tests for infections, wastewater surveillance, and drug-resistant bacteria.

MHSRS is the Department of Defense’s premier scientific meeting. It addresses the unique medical needs of service members through forums that facilitate intensive idea sharing and relationship building among healthcare professionals, researchers, and DoD leaders.

Navy Medicine Research and Development participated actively, showcasing their research and interacting in various breakout sessions. Eight Navy Medicine Research and Development commands, led by the Naval Medical Research Command (NMRC), engaged in a broad range of activities from basic laboratory science to field studies in remote areas.

Originally posted on DVIDS: NAMRU INDO PACIFIC Receives Award, Presents Science at MHSRS 2024