Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes that infects pigs, horses and humans. In swine, this virus causes reproductive failure, delayed farrowing, stillbirths, mummified fetuses and weak piglets. While this virus has not been detected in the U.S., it is recently spreading, increasing the potential it could reach the U.S. To address this threat, the Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) and the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) are funding a $1 million Japanese Encephalitis Virus Research Program to enhance U.S. prevention, preparedness and response capabilities.
The program is soliciting proposals through April 15, 2024, to advance research on a range of priorities. SHIC and FFAR anticipate awarding several grants, each capped at $250,000, though proposals may exceed the cap if applicants provide sufficient justification. Matching funds are encouraged but not required. The SHIC website includes more information about application procedures, research priorities and the proposal template.
SHIC and FFAR are co-hosting an informational webinar Feb. 22, at 4 p.m. ET to provide additional details about the application criteria. Preregistration is required. A recording of the webinar will be available on FFAR’s website.
