A nursing instructor at the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is on the forefront of studies that probe how to rein in secondary infections that can be fatal for patients suffering from illnesses that attack their immune systems, Newswise reports.
Domestic and overseas studies led by Jason Farley focused on methods of helping these patients, many of whom are HIV-positive or have AIDS. Some of his work revolves around comprehending the genetic make-up of infections to prevent passing it back and forth among partners.
"We wanted to look at how the bacteria evolved and whether patients had it on different parts of the body," Farley says. "It's important to know if a patient is a carrier or has been colonized by the strain especially if they start to develop multiple skin and soft tissue infections."
His work is especially underscored in South Africa, which has been more strongly impacted by AIDS than any other nation. He is also widening research on multidrug resistant tuberculosis.
In operation since 1889, the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing conducts cutting-edge research, education and scholarship to produce well-equipped candidates to fill nursing jobs. The school's student body consists of 411 undergraduates and 365 graduates.