On March 31, 2018, ELP co-hosted a public informational forum on toxoplasmosis and its potential impacts on Hawaii’s wildlife and public health.
Experts representing various backgrounds from universities and the state and federal government highlighted what is currently known about the Toxoplasma gondii parasite and the disease it can cause.
Panelists included:
- Thierry Work, DVM, MS, Wildlife Disease Specialist/Field & Lab Research, USGS
- William Gosnell, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Tropical Medicine, John A Burns School of Medicine
- Kenton Kramer, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Tropical Medicine, John A Burns School of Medicine
- Bruce Anderson, PhD, Administrator, DLNR Division of Aquatic Resources
- Michelle Barbieri, DVM, MS, Wildlife Veterinary Medical Officer, NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center, Protected Species Division
- Angela Amlin, Hawaiian Monk Seal Recovery Coordinator, NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Regional Office
- Christopher Lepczyk, PhD, Professor, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University (via Skype)
- Kirsten Leong, PhD, Social Scientist, NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center
- Joshua Atwood, PhD, Invasive Species Coordinator, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, DLNR
Panelists presented on the scientific background of the parasite, the effects on wildlife, the social science behind efforts to address the issue, as well as current policy frameworks and potential directions. In Hawai‘i, notably, at least eight endangered Hawaiian monk seals have been killed by toxoplasmosis since 2001. The death of other endangered native species has also been attributed to the disease. After each of the panelists shared their research and knowledge on their respective topics, the forum provided an outlet for public discussion about this threat and its potential solutions. Audience members and panelists were able to become involved in a healthy dialogue on what has been a difficult issue for experts, policymakers, and the public.
Mahalo to all our forum participants and our co-hosts.
April 8, 2018 — amf