HOUSING THE CROWDS: Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro will be the site of the opening and closing ceremonies this summer.

Let The Games Begin—With Caution

Enjoy a safe Olympics in Rio.

Story by Gary Gately • Illustration by Daniel Basil/Portal Da Copa

Neither zika nor waterborne illnesses are dashing the hopes of Paulo Feijó Barroso, MD, PhD ’00, who holds tickets for two Olympic sprinting events.

Like him, most spectators wanting to attend the 2016 Games, which run AUGUST 5-21 in Rio, needn’t worry or change their plans, says the associate professor of infectious diseases in the Department of Preventive Medicine at Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro.

“Threats from Zika and waterborne illnesses are greatly exaggerated,” Barroso reassures. “There’s no reason for most people to stay away.”

Zika—transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in March and April, not in August, one of the coolest months in Rio—poses little risk, Barroso says. He recommends prudent precautions: updating immunizations, using bed nets and applying bug repellents to skin and pants and long-sleeved shirts. However, he does advise women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant soon to avoid travel to Brazil because of the risk of transmitting Zika to fetuses.

Mosquitoes and standing water coexist, of course, but insects aren’t the only health-related threat. Rio’s waters are notoriously polluted.

Barroso advises visitors to check online updates from the Brazilian government about the status of  Rio beaches bordering Guanabara Bay, an Olympic venue. Swimmers might opt instead for the Atlantic Ocean, which he frequents. He also recommends drinking bottled water.

Looking Ahead

The future is the focus on June 9 for one of the School’s most anticipated Centennial events.

Story by Jackie Powder

“WHAT’S NEXT?”

A special JUNE 9 Bloomberg School will gather top writers on health issues to share their insights into what’s ahead in pandemics, social justice and other areas.

The event, which will also be webcast, will feature writers’ unique perspectives on the future of public health, based on their careful study of current issues.

With mass audience readership, the writers’ work helps to shape public opinion and attitudes on critical public health concerns.

Through informal talks and in conversation with moderator Nancy Snyderman, the writers will share bold visions for future challenges and opportunities in health.

BRING ON THE CAKE!

The School officially reaches the century mark on JUNE 13, 2016, and we’re throwing a Centennial birthday bash!

There will be plenty of birthday cake to go around as the entire School commemorates its founding as the first independent, degree-granting school of public health.

There are also plans to celebrate the occasion in a unique and fun way with others who will always remember June 13, 2016 as a special day. We’re looking forward to recognizing all new babies born at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in East Baltimore with a special Centennial Baby Basket, recognizing our committed history to our home here in East Baltimore.

Maybe in 25 years or so, we’ll welcome a Centennial baby as a student!

ANOTHER ANNIVERSARY

The centennial isn’t the year’s only important anniversary.

Fifteen years ago, the School was renamed in honor of Michael R. Bloomberg for his unprecedented support of the School and the University.

As a public official and private philanthropist, Bloomberg has demonstrated a passionate commitment to public health. As New York City mayor from 2002 to 2013, he pioneered bold public health initiatives, including sweeping anti-smoking measures. His foundation has taken on tobacco control and road safety in developing countries. In the U.S., Bloomberg is a leading proponent of gun safety laws.

“Mike gets it,” observed Alfred Sommer, then dean of the newly renamed School. “He really understands our mission, our accomplishments … and our potential to do even more.”  

Centennial Connection

The latest on all Centennial happenings: jhsph.edu/centennial

Stop The Dying

Experts pursue equity issues at AIDS 2016 in Durban.

Story by Maryalice Yakutchik • Illustration by Brian Stauffer/The ispot

"Access Equity Rights Now”—the theme of AIDS 2016—succinctly outlines the most pressing topics slated for the 21st biennial International AIDS Conference, to be held JULY 18–22 in Durban, South Africa.

Getting HIV prevention and treatment services to those in dire need—notably gay and bisexual men, sex workers, prisoners and drug users—remains an issue, says the Bloomberg School’s Chris Beyrer, AIDS 2016 co-chair and president of the International AIDS Society.

Widespread violations of human rights continue to undermine effective HIV prevention and treatment efforts, as does a lack of urgency.

“We have had a spectacular string of research advances,” says Beyrer, MD, MPH ’91, citing the HIV-prevention method known as PrEP, which involves individuals taking daily meds to lower their chances of getting infected. “The big challenge now is, do we have the political will to implement these advances to reduce new infections and stop the dying?”

Further threats to already flat funding and waning donor interest mean it’s too soon to declare victory. “Much too soon,” he adds.