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News (2021)
23 December, 2021
Have a safe holiday season!
Thank you for your support of our work and the communities we serve. Burnet Institute will close from 24 December and re-open on 12 January 2022. Stay safe over the holiday period.
23 December, 2021
2021 in Review: July to December
As the COVID-19 Delta variant sent many into lockdown, Burnet’s public health and infectious disease expertise played a key role in protecting the community and charting a path forward.
23 December, 2021
2021 in Review: January to June
As the pandemic continued into 2021, Burnet remained pivotal in the COVID-19 response and continued important work in achieving equity through better health.
23 December, 2021
Burnet secures $3m funding to help bolster COVID-19 pandemic protections
Victorian Government funding supports two Burnet research projects - Dimeric IgA therapeutic monoclonal antibody technology and Potent biologicals for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19
23 December, 2021
A national response to COVID-19 is long overdue, but is yet to happen
Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Mike Toole call for a nationally consistent approach to the current surge in COVID-19 cases, in an editorial for Nine Media publications.
21 December, 2021
Burnet and Doherty scientists develop highly accurate point-of-care neutralising antibodies (NAb) test for COVID-19
The test, which provides a readout from a fingerprick of blood in less than 20 minutes, is the first of its type globally.
20 December, 2021
How to have a safe(r) summer with COVID-19 cases rising in our communities.
As COVID-19 cases increase across Australia, here are 10 THINGS TO CONSIDER to have a safe[r] summer from our public health research experts.
19 December, 2021
‘Can’t have business as usual’ with Omicron curveball‘
As COVID-19 cases rise to record highs in NSW, Professor Brendan Crabb speaks to The New Daily, recommending “non-restrictive” interventions to combat the Omicron variant.
17 December, 2021
NHMRC appointment for A/Prof Joshua Vogel
Associate Professor Joshua Vogel has been appointed to the National Health and Medical Research Council Research Committee for a three-year term.
16 December, 2021
Impact Magazine Summer 2021 edition now live
Read stories about how we continued to support the COVID-19 response and advance our research and programs in HIV, hepatitis, and maternal and child health.
16 December, 2021
Social media analysis reveals new insights into antivax movement
Analysis of recent social media posts shows the antivax movement is diverse and complex, with conflicting concepts and interpretations of freedom and human rights.
16 December, 2021
Step forward for AIID
The Australian Institute for Infectious Disease has taken an important step forward with the signing of a Foundation Partners Agreement.
15 December, 2021
Omicron: What the science says
As the world tries to come to terms with the Omicron variant and its impact, the Herald Sun has published a useful explainer to address key questions.
15 December, 2021
Victoria to become home of mRNA vaccine manufacturing
Burnet welcomes the announcement of mRNA manufacturing capacity to be based in Victoria and play a vital role in future pandemic preparedness.
10 December, 2021
Philanthropy Award for Miller Foundation
Burnet Institute warmly congratulates the Miller family and their Miller Foundation, winners of the Research Australia Philanthropy Award for 2020.
09 December, 2021
PNG a candidate for next variant if Australia doesn’t help boost jabs
Burnet Institute epidemiologist Dr Stefanie Vaccher writes for Nine Media on the urgent need to support vaccination programs in Papua New Guinea.
08 December, 2021
New insights into immunity to malaria in pregnancy
A new Burnet study reveals the role of specific proteins in the blood to prevent malaria in pregnancy, providing a potential new pathway for vaccine development.
07 December, 2021
Concerns over COVID impact on malaria mortality
Concerns about the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on efforts to eliminate malaria remain following the release of the latest WHO World malaria report.
02 December, 2021
Call for action on global COVID-19 vaccines
Professor Brendan Crabb AC is among leading health and aid experts calling for Australia to commit $250 million to the COVAX global vaccination effort.
01 December, 2021
40 years of HIV – Where to next?
40 years of HIV – Where to next? was the theme for World AIDS Day 2021, and official events in Victoria commenced with good news from Health Minister, Martin Foley.
30 November, 2021
Well Beyond 50
The UNAIDS theme for World AIDS Day 2021 is ‘End inequalities. End AIDS’ and Burnet is playing its part with a new project to support people living with HIV who are aged over 50.
29 November, 2021
Experts urge caution on Omicron
Allowing the Omicron variant to run its course in the community would be a serious mistake, Burnet Deputy Director, Associate Professor David Anderson has warned.
29 November, 2021
Omicron variant
The World Health Organization has declared the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of SARS-CoV-2 a new variant of concern.
26 November, 2021
Vaccine equity a 'must' for new variant
With the emergence of the new Omicron COVID-19 variant, Professor Brendan Crabb believes Australia has an overriding responsibility to support vaccine equity, not just regionally, but globally.
19 November, 2021
Improved naloxone access can prevent prescription opioid overdose deaths
New Burnet study demonstrates how improved access to naloxone in Australia could prevent hundreds of overdose deaths from prescription opioids.
15 November, 2021
While children wait for their COVID jab, caution is still required
Professor Brendan Crabb is a co-author of an editorial for Nine Media addressing the challenge of COVID-19 mitigation among children while they wait for the vaccine.
12 November, 2021
The Story of Joylene Vanahe
The tragic story of losing a young mum and her baby in PNG, and how the Safe Delivery App may have saved their lives. As told by Joylene Vanahe, Community Health Worker.
10 November, 2021
Better COVID vaccine information needed for key populations
Burnet study showing a high proportion of Melburnians who inject drugs are unwilling to be vaccinated for COVID-19 prompts calls for improved access to information.
08 November, 2021
Burnet support for National Plan modelling
Burnet Institute was a collaborator on the latest modelling to support the National Plan to Transition Australia’s National COVID Response.
04 November, 2021
NHMRC Ideas Grant for Burnet HIV research
A project led by Dr Anna Hearps focusing on a neglected problem in HIV cure research has been awarded an NHMRC Ideas Grant.
29 October, 2021
COVID-19 modelling FAQs
Gain a greater understanding of Burnet’s COVID-19 modelling, which has helped inform and shape Australia’s COVID-19 pandemic response.
25 October, 2021
Professor Caroline Homer appointed NHMRC Council Chair
Burnet Institute’s Professor Caroline Homer AO has been appointed Chair of the Council of the National Health and Medical Research Council.
25 October, 2021
Sustained investment is needed to eliminate hepatitis C by 2030
A new report highlights the ongoing decline of hepatitis C testing and treatment uptake and the cost-effectiveness of sustained investments in treatments.
25 October, 2021
COVID doesn’t need to run rampant. Here are six ways to keep cases low in the next year
Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Nancy Baxter highlight the importance of a vaccines-plus strategy in a commentary for The Conversation.
22 October, 2021
As Melbourne cautiously opens up today, what lies ahead?
Professor Mike Toole AM and Professor Mark Stoové take a look at what lies ahead for post-lockdown Melbourne in this commentary for The Conversation.
22 October, 2021
Social media analysis shows support for public health measures
TIGER C19 analysis of Twitter and Reddit keywords reflects mixed impact of extended lockdowns in Australia.
21 October, 2021
Burnet Institute statement re. news.com.au article
Statement in response to an article questioning peer-reviewed Burnet study findings on the impact of a mandatory mask policy.
21 October, 2021
Calls for PNG government directive to stop use of anti-worm drug
Social media misinformation drives demand for ivermectin in PNG for COVID-19, despite WHO warnings against its use.
19 October, 2021
PNG is back on the brink of a delta variant disaster
Complacency and vaccine hesitancy have left PNG wide open to delta infection, Professor Brendan Crabb says in the Australian Financial Review.
18 October, 2021
Podcast: Modelling COVID-19 - How Science Matters
Understand what goes into Burnet’s modelling and how it works in Episode 7 of our How Science Matters COVID-19 podcast series.
18 October, 2021
PNG calls for international help amid Delta surge
Hospitals in Papua New Guinea under strain as country battles COVID-19 surge and vaccine hesitancy.
17 October, 2021
Victorian lockdown to end 21 October: updated Burnet modelling
Updated Burnet mathematical modelling and accelerated vaccination levels a key driver guiding changes to Victoria’s roadmap.
14 October, 2021
Pandemic levels of abuse directed at COVID-19 experts
Burnet Institute leaders are among surveyed scientists prepared to call out threats they received for speaking to the media about COVID-19.
13 October, 2021
Time for Australia to get serious about global vaccine equity
Ending COVID-19 everywhere is not just an ethical imperative, it is essential for a healthier, more open, and economically stronger Australia.
12 October, 2021
The RTS,S malaria vaccine explained
Burnet’s Dr Liriye Kurtovic examines why has it taken until now for the WHO to recommend a malaria vaccine, and what it means for malaria elimination.
11 October, 2021
Westpac grant for project to protect children
A Burnet-led project to prevent the online exploitation of children has been awarded a Westpac Foundation research grant.
11 October, 2021
Vaccinate the world before virus mutates
Burnet co-authors ‘A Shot of Hope’ report, outlining Australia’s role in vaccinating the world against COVID-19.
07 October, 2021
WHO recommends first malaria vaccine for children at risk
Ground-breaking RTS,S vaccine found to be safe and effective at preventing malaria.
05 October, 2021
OzSage advice on protecting children from COVID-19
New advice released from Australian experts on COVID-19 on the protection of children and making schools and childcare safer.
02 October, 2021
Vaccines-plus crucial to COVID-19 exit
Mandatory vaccination and the need for a ‘vaccines plus’ exit from lockdown were among topics addressed by Professor Brendan Crabb on Ch7’s Weekend Sunrise.
30 September, 2021
Overnight spike in Victorian cases another hard COVID-19 lesson
Grand final celebrations were the likely main trigger with one-third of the new cases from illegal gatherings, writes Professor Brendan Crabb AC and Professor Mike Toole AM in The Age.
23 September, 2021
A regional COVID-19 response needs more from Australia
Chair of Pacific Friends of Global Health and Burnet’s Director and CEO, Professor Brendan Crabb AC calls for greater Australian commitment to COVAX
21 September, 2021
Statement of support of TGA
Evidence-based health and medical organisations and individuals support Therapeutic Goods Administration; condemn threats to TGA staff.
19 September, 2021
Modelling the Victorian Roadmap
Burnet’s COVID-19 mathematical modelling was commissioned by the Victorian Government to inform the Victorian Roadmap
19 September, 2021
Rapid COVID-19 test a Burnet collaboration
A finger prick test that can quickly predict a person’s level of neutralising antibodies to COVID-19 has been developed by Burnet and Doherty Institutes.
17 September, 2021
New test to diagnose vaginal inflammation could help reduce risk of HIV infection
Burnet researchers are working with an international team in trials of an effective affordable tool that could have a major impact on reproductive health.
17 September, 2021
Burnet Support of Congress Vaccination strategy
Burnet Institute affirms our support for the efforts to protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities from COVID-19.
16 September, 2021
Burnet Student Symposium
The breadth of Burnet research was showcased in a program of outstanding presentations at Burnet Institute’s 2021 Student Symposium.
15 September, 2021
More Victorians intend to get vaccinated for COVID-19 but mixed understanding of the implications of being vaccinated
New research from Burnet and Doherty Institutes Optimise Study.
14 September, 2021
New Burnet modelling: Tougher restrictions in NSW's 12 LGAs of Concern 'turns the corner' on cases, not just rising vaccination levels
Read the latest from Professors Allan Saul, Brendan Crabb and Mark Stoovè
14 September, 2021
Podcast Ep. 8: Lost voice – COVID's impact on malaria
Professor James Beeson looks at the impact of COVID-19 on other infectious diseases, and how progress towards eliminating them could be set back.
14 September, 2021
NHMRC grants for Burnet Emerging Leaders
Burnet research into adolescent health, menstrual health and hepatitis C will benefit from National Health and Medical Research Council Emerging Leadership Grants.
09 September, 2021
Australians remain stoic and community focused as lockdowns continue, social media analysis shows
TIGER C19 project analyses Twitter and Reddit keywords
08 September, 2021
Report reveals COVID's impact on HIV, TB and Malaria programs
The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously disrupted the fight against HIV, TB and malaria according to the Global Fund.
07 September, 2021
Initial modelling projections for second epidemic wave in Sydney, NSW
Overview of COVASIM modelling released by NSW Government
06 September, 2021
India may be reaching 'endemicity' after emerging from second COVID-19 wave
Is the worst of the pandemic over for India? First published on ABC News.
03 September, 2021
First advice from new expert body on reopening safely
A new multidisciplinary network, OzSage, has released independent expert advice on opening safely in the COVID-19 pandemic.
03 September, 2021
World Congress of Epidemiology
Burnet Institute researchers will be hosting a symposium on methodologies to accelerate malaria elimination at the 2021 World Congress of Epidemiology starting today.
01 September, 2021
Victoria's community effort helps avert around 6000 COVID-19 cases, Burnet modelling shows
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton cited the impact of community adherence during lockdown 6 in preventing thousands of new infections.
31 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 6: Motherhood in a time of pandemic
Professor Caroline Homer discusses the crushing emotional toll of COVID-19 on expectant mothers worldwide, alongside the success stories for maternal health.
30 August, 2021
Malaria ‘hotspots’ found in PNG villages
New collaborative research highlights varying risk factors in PNG, guiding future malaria control activities.
27 August, 2021
Supporting menstrual health in Australia means more than just throwing pads at the problem
New attention to menstruation in Australia is welcome but long-term strategies are needed, writes Dr Julie Hennegan in The Conversation.
25 August, 2021
Ventilation a failing and an opportunity
Effective ventilation is both a failing and an opportunity for Australia to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, Professor Brendan Crabb believes.
24 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 5: Is COVID-normal possible?
Changing people’s behaviour is complicated. Professor Margaret Hellard explains how you can influence communities to embrace COVID-safe actions, and avoid stigma.
24 August, 2021
Focus on contact tracing, lockdowns in opening up
The need for lockdowns and effective contact tracing should to be included in the debate over plans to reopen Australia, according to Professor Allan Saul.
22 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 4: Everyone’s an epidemiologist!
Hear how Burnet’s Professor Mike Toole, a 40-year veteran of disease control shelved his retirement plans in Egypt, to help solve the COVID-19 puzzle.
20 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 3: No one is safe until everyone is safe
In this episode of How Science Matters Professor Leanne Robinson explains why Australia can’t can’t just barrier itself off from the rest of the world. Out now!
19 August, 2021
Why our COVID ambition must remain close to zero cases, even as we climb to high vaccination
Professor Brendan Crabb, Professor Mike Toole and Dr Suman Majumdar explain why COVID zero should continue to be our goal in an editorial for Nine Media publications.
19 August, 2021
What does the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan mean for the health of women and girls?
Professor Mike Toole AM writes for Croakey and suggests strategies to protect health gains.
19 August, 2021
Rising COVID-19 cases in NSW “a national emergency”
As New South Wales records 681 COVID-19 cases, Professor Brendan Crabb AC urges clearer, more uniform public health measures.
17 August, 2021
Vale Professor Evelyn Lavu
Professor Evelyn Lavu, a friend, colleague, mentor and leader in healthcare in Papua New Guinea.
17 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 2: Are vaccines the silver bullet?
Listen to How Science Matters, featuring Professor Heidi Drummer, and find out why everyone will be touched by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Out now!
17 August, 2021
From ground zero to zero tolerance – how China learnt from its COVID response to quickly stamp out its latest outbreak
Professor Mike Toole AM writes for The Conversation.
16 August, 2021
Transformational day for Burnet with the sale of 360biolabs
The Burnet Institute majority owned company 360biolabs has signed an agreement to be purchased by BioAgilytix Labs, LLC (BioAgilytix), a leading global contract research laboratory headquartered in the USA.
16 August, 2021
Burnet Statement on Afghanistan
Burnet Institute expresses grave concern about the health and safety of the Afghan people as the Taliban occupies the capital, Kabul.
16 August, 2021
ACMI to facilitate access to modelling
Burnet Institute is a collaborator in an exciting new initiative, the Australian COVID-19 Modelling Initiative (ACMI).
13 August, 2021
Podcast Ep. 1: A year like no other, the pandemic continues
Listen to How Science Matters, featuring Professor Brendan Crabb, and find out why COVID-19 is a ‘goldilocks virus". Out now!
10 August, 2021
Burnet launches How Science Matters podcast series!
The new 8-part podcast helps makes sense of the impact of COVID-19 through science. Subscribe today!
10 August, 2021
Professor Brendan Crabb ABC TV News Breakfast
Professor Brendan Crabb addresses the state of play with COVID-19 in Australia in an expansive interview with Lisa Millar on ABC TV News Breakfast.
09 August, 2021
Study shows people not getting COVID tested even when symptomatic
Victorians are modifying their behaviour in response to changing COVID-19 restrictions, but many are not having a COVID-19 test even when symptomatic.
02 August, 2021
Global Fund boost for detection of infectious diseases in Indo-Pacific
Burnet Institute is part of a major collaboration awarded AUD$5 million in funding for the detection of infectious diseases in our region
30 July, 2021
Burnet modelling shows COVID ‘exit’ needs vaccines and public health controls
New Burnet modelling shows that until Australia achieves extremely high rates of vaccination coverage, public health restrictions will be essential for community control of COVID-19.
28 July, 2021
World Hepatitis Day 2021 – evidence-based successes and future possibilities
To celebrate World Hepatitis Day, Burnet Institute’s symposium highlighted the progress towards hep B and C elimination goals.
28 July, 2021
New partnership to boost hepatitis C elimination in regional Aboriginal settings
A new project will use integrated and culturally appropriate strategies to help eliminate hepatitis C infection in Aboriginal communities.
28 July, 2021
New treatment pathways for hepatitis C
Newly published Burnet study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of simplified treatment of hepatitis C in Myanmar.
22 July, 2021
World-first study shows effectiveness of masks in preventing COVID transmission
Burnet research shows how the mandating of masks during Melbourne’s second wave in 2020 ‘turned the epidemic around’.
20 July, 2021
IAS award for Burnet researcher
Burnet Research Assistant and PhD candidate Brendan Harney has been acknowledged for excellence in research with an IAS/MSD Prize for Research in HIV Prevention.
17 July, 2021
Burnet support for HIV Consensus Statement
Professor Margaret Hellard joins HIV experts from around the world in support of the long-term well-being of people living with HIV.
16 July, 2021
Burnet Institute Travel Awards
The COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t dampened travel ambitions for winners of Burnet Institute’s Travel Awards for 2020.
15 July, 2021
How will variants change our response to COVID-19?
Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Mike Toole explain the implications of the Delta variant and the need for a ‘Vaccine-Plus’ strategy in this commentary for The Age.
14 July, 2021
A tougher 4-week lockdown could save Sydney months of stay-at-home orders, our modelling shows
Published in The Conversation.
13 July, 2021
New collaboration to address P. Vivax in PNG
Burnet is a collaborator in a new program to improve the management of Plasmodium vivax, the most prevalent form of recurring malaria worldwide.
13 July, 2021
Experts unite to help get Aussies vaccinated against COVID-19
Australian Academy of Science launches vaccination campaign featuring Burnet’s Professor Brendan Crabb.
12 July, 2021
Tighter ‘Stage 4’ restrictions will likely be needed to control Delta variant outbreak in NSW, new modelling shows
New modelling, developed by Burnet Institute, released.
06 July, 2021
Morrison’s COVID roadmap a step in the right direction
Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Margaret Hellard take a critical look at Australia’s staged COVID roadmap in this commentary for Nine Media.
06 July, 2021
Why is Delta such a worry?
Professor Mike Toole AM takes a close look at the COVID-19 Delta variant in a global context in this commentary originally published in The Conversation.
05 July, 2021
Celebrating NAIDOC Week
Burnet Institute is committed to NAIDOC Week and the importance of this year’s theme, ‘Heal Country!’
05 July, 2021
Modelling says vaccines alone won’t be panacea back to normal life
Professor Margaret Hellard joins experts citing the need for QR check-ins, social distancing, density controls and masking intervention as part of the reopening stages agreed by the National Cabinet. Published in the AFR.
02 July, 2021
Professor Brendan Crabb to lead Australian Global Health Alliance
Burnet Director and CEO Professor Brendan Crabb AC has been appointed Chair of the Australian Global Health Alliance, Australia’s peak body for global health organisations.
30 June, 2021
Australians frustrated with COVID-19 vaccine rollout and communications, social media analysis shows
Burnet collaborative project analyses social media keywords and themes in May-June 2021.
28 June, 2021
The path to exiting the pandemic is paved with vaccinations
Australia is clearly a long way from high vaccine coverage writes Professor Brendan Crabb AC and Professor Heidi Drummer in The New Daily.
25 June, 2021
Vaccine targets for over-60s called out as ‘ambitious’
A new plan suggests those eligible for AstraZeneca will be vaccinated by October. But how realistic is that goal? First published on RACGP news.
17 June, 2021
NHMRC awards for Associate Professor Josh Vogel
Associate Professor Vogel acknowledged for his leadership and excellence in research with two prestigious awards.
16 June, 2021
mRNA advisory appointment for Professor Brendan Crabb
Burnet Institute Director and CEO Professor Brendan Crabb AC has been appointed to mRNA Victoria’s new Scientific Advisory Group.
14 June, 2021
Queen's Birthday Honour for Associate Professor Edwina Wright
Burnet Institute’s Associate Professor Edwina Wright is among eminent Australians acknowledged in the 2021 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
13 June, 2021
Lockdown alternatives to be found in unshackled thinking
A weary Melbourne is emerging from its fourth lockdown. In The Age/SMH, Professor Brendan Crabb AC is among the experts analysing if a rethink of lockdowns is needed.
11 June, 2021
Are lockdowns the answer every time there is a COVID-19 outbreak?
Lockdowns are an essential part of the pandemic-response toolkit, but how can we reduce the pain? Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Mike Toole write for Nine Media.
11 June, 2021
North Richmond SIF supporting the most vulnerable, new study shows
A new Burnet study shows the North Richmond Medically Supervised Injecting Facility is fulfilling its brief by attracting people most in need of the service.
11 June, 2021
Thousands of deaths likely if COVID-19 ‘left to run’ in Victoria without high vaccine uptake and public health measures, new modelling shows
New modelling developed by Burnet Institute’s COVASIM group.
11 June, 2021
Scientific discovery centre stage in Medical Research Week 2021
Celebrating all researchers, students and the support teams who work tirelessly to improve our health and tackle unsolved health problems.
04 June, 2021
Stark inequity in global COVID-19 vaccine rollout
Globally 2 billion doses of vaccine have been given, but Africa is being left behind. Watch Professor Mike Toole’s analysis of the disparity in vaccinating the world’s population.
02 June, 2021
COVID-19 Global Update: 1-31 May 2021
Latest information on global epidemiology and trends, science snapshots and updates on vaccines and viral variants.
02 June, 2021
Australia is in a race against Covid-19. I’m waiting to hear the starting gun
In a commentary for The Guardian, Professor Mike Toole writes urgent action is needed to prevent the current Victorian lockdown from happening again.
01 June, 2021
New Action Plan for hepatitis elimination
Burnet Institute is a signatory to an Action Plan for the elimination of hepatitis B and hepatitis C by 2030.
01 June, 2021
Staying ahead of the curve
How EC Australia partner organisations are using creative strategies to find, test and treat the 110,000 Australians still living with hep C. First published in IMPACT.
28 May, 2021
New STI affecting pregnant women in PNG
Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies is addressing significant health challenges faced by women and young children in Papua New Guinea.
28 May, 2021
Clear leadership and purpose-built quarantine crucial to beating COVID
Professors Brendan Crabb and Mike Toole call for national leadership in addressing aerosol transmission of COVID-19 and the need for purpose-built quarantine in a commentary for Nine Media.
27 May, 2021
Taking actions towards Reconciliation
National Reconciliation Week 2021: Burnet taking action to ensure Reconciliation is more than a word.
25 May, 2021
AAS Fellowship for Professor Brendan Crabb
Burnet Institute Director and CEO Professor Brendan Crabb AC has been elected a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science for his outstanding contribution to science.
25 May, 2021
Melbourne COVID-19 cluster sparks new restrictions
Professor Brendan Crabb spoke with Patricia Karvelas on RN Drive about what the latest outbreak means for Victorians.
21 May, 2021
COVID-19: What's next?
Professor Mike Toole explores how the COVID-19 pandemic will affect us in 2021 and beyond? First published in IMPACT.
21 May, 2021
Olympic athletes speak up: current COVID plans aren’t enough to keep them safe
Professor Mike Toole writes for The Conversation on why proceeding with the Tokyo Olympics defies public health logic.
21 May, 2021
Elderly Australians and people living with chronic illness still limiting social interactions
Social mixing in Australia has increased as COVID-19 restrictions have eased, but older people and people living with chronic illness have continued to limit social interactions, new research led by Burnet has found.
19 May, 2021
Australian Institute for Infectious Disease coming to world-leading Melbourne Biomedical Precinct
Burnet Institute welcomes an additional $245 million investment from the Victorian Government to build the new Australian Institute for Infectious Disease (AIID).
19 May, 2021
A year of challenges and successes
The year 2020 is acknowledged as one of Burnet’s most challenging, yet successful, in the Institute’s 2020 Annual Report.
19 May, 2021
Dr Nick Scott is Gust-McKenzie Medallist
Congratulations to Burnet econometrician whose modelling has been crucial in informing Australia’s COVID-19 response.
16 May, 2021
We must use caution to break out of Fortress Australia
Professor Brendan Crabb and Professor Mike Toole put the case for a nuanced approach to border control in a commentary published in Nine Media.
14 May, 2021
IMPACT 2021
Read the latest stories from Burnet’s scientists on the frontline of medical research and public health innovation. Covering COVID-19, maternal and child health, viral hepatitis and other major health issues.
13 May, 2021
WHO’s counting on us to stop the next pandemic
Professor Brendan Crabb responds to the Independent Panel’s investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic in an editorial for Nine Media.
13 May, 2021
How a faster WHO response could have slowed COVID-19’s spread
The World Health Organization needs support in the wake of the Independent Panel Report into its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Mike Toole writes for The Conversation.
11 May, 2021
Exploring social media for attitudes to COVID
Burnet is a collaborator in a project to understand what social media posts reveal about public sentiment relating to COVID-19 and its impact on the Australian community.
10 May, 2021
COVID-19 patients from Australian ICUs still reporting symptoms
Two in three Australians recovering from severe COVID-19 disease have ongoing issues six months on, a study has found. First published on ABC News.
08 May, 2021
Her way: how new mothers in Australia navigated their transition to parenthood during COVID-19
Mother’s Day 2021: Study shows new levels of resilience and resourcefulness as childbearing women adapted to COVID-19 maternity experience.
07 May, 2021
COVID-19 Global Update: Vaccines and Variants
Analysis of COVID-19 vaccine news, and emerging viral variants compiled by Burnet’s Know-C19 Hub.
06 May, 2021
Community focus on TB
Burnet Institute is a founding collaborator in a new group, the Melbourne TB Community, which aims to optimise science and practice relating to tuberculosis.
05 May, 2021
COVID-19 Global Update: Epidemiology and Trends
Summary of the worsening global COVID-19 situation in April 2021, in volume 1 of the Know-C19 Hub’s latest Global Update.
30 April, 2021
Professor Heidi Drummer appointed Scientific Director of Burnet Diagnostics Initiative (BDI)
Professor Drummer will also lead the Burnet Diagnostics Initiative (BDI) lab team. Associate Professor David Anderson remains BDI’s Chief Scientific Officer.
30 April, 2021
New definition urges action on menstrual health for all
A global collaboration of experts has developed a definition of menstrual health to provide clarity and unity in support of menstrual needs worldwide.
29 April, 2021
It’s time to move quarantine out of city hotels
More than a dozen COVID leaks in 6 months: to protect Australians, it’s time to move quarantine out of city hotels, Professor Mike Toole writes in The Conversation
28 April, 2021
17th Sex Drugs and Rock ‘n’ Roll Survey live
Examining changes in behaviours and attitudes to health and wellbeing is the focus of Burnet’s long-running young people’s health survey, which is now live.
28 April, 2021
Not just better health: The impact of investment in medical research
The ‘Creating a Healthy Future’ Report by Victoria’s Lead Scientist, Dr Amanda Caples, highlights stunning economic returns from investment by Victorian Government in medical research.
26 April, 2021
New Oxford malaria vaccine a potential game-changer
Burnet malaria specialist, Professor Brendan Crabb AC spoke with ABC Radio Sydney’s Josh Szeps about what the new vaccine means for poorer communities.
24 April, 2021
COVID-19 elicits concerns and hope on World Malaria Day
While progress towards malaria elimination is being disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, malaria research stands to benefit from the upheaval of the past 15 months.
20 April, 2021
Protecting PNG from an escalating COVID-19 outbreak is urgent business for Australia
An urgent priority is to provide more assistance to scale up testing across the country writes Professor Brendan Crabb AC and Professor Mike Toole AM in The Canberra Times.
19 April, 2021
Surging global cases of COVID-19 threaten Australia’s exit strategy
The race to vaccinate the world is not keeping pace with accelerated transmission by viral variants of concern writes Burnet’s Professor Mike Toole AM and Professor Brendan Crabb AC in the SMH.
18 April, 2021
Shame, stigma barriers to COVID-19 testing for young and culturally diverse, report finds
Optimise Study finds high rates of testing hesitancy among young Australians and migrant communities.
15 April, 2021
Vaccine rollout should focus on Asia-Pacific region
Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine programs are threatened while the virus is allowed to spread rapidly overseas, experts Professor Brendan Crabb and Dr Anthony Fauci warn.
09 April, 2021
Australia's vaccine rollout pivots with new advice about AstraZeneca vaccine
Professor Brendan Crabb AC talks to ABC TV’s Afternoon Briefing about why the Government now prefers the Pfizer vaccine for under 50s.
08 April, 2021
Hotel Quarantine in Victoria: third time lucky?
As international travellers return, will it be third time lucky for Victoria’s hotel quarantine system? Mike Toole writes in The Conversation.
02 April, 2021
PSANZ awards for Burnet students
Students from Burnet’s Global Women’s and Newborn’s Health Group picked up two prizes at the Annual Congress of the Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand.
01 April, 2021
No time to lose: One million COVID-19 cases predicted in PNG 'in a few weeks'
A potential humanitarian crisis is looming in PNG. The PNG Epidemic Response Group including Burnet, calls for urgent vaccine support by Australian Government.
01 April, 2021
Australia urged to send 1 million vaccines to PNG
Medical research institutes, including Burnet, join NGOs and Church groups in Australia seeking strong, additional support for PNG’s COVID-19 emergency.
31 March, 2021
New cells harnessed to ambush and kill malaria
A novel approach from Burnet scientists, targeting malaria as soon as it enters the bloodstream, has yielded exciting results towards the development of a much-needed vaccine.
29 March, 2021
Burnet report supports ACT safe injecting facility
A study led by Professor Paul Dietze recommends a medically supervised drug injection room be opened in Canberra.
24 March, 2021
TB: The Clock is Ticking
Each year, on March 24, World TB Day brings awareness to the devastating health, social and economic impacts of tuberculosis, the world’s deadliest infectious disease.
24 March, 2021
Exciting results for TB treatment trial
Burnet’s Dr Philipp du Cros played a key role in the success of a trial to find a better treatment for rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (TB).
24 March, 2021
Tuberculosis: Debilitating in a COVID-19 world
As we continue to address the COVID-19 pandemic, this year, on World TB Day 2021, many parallels with TB have become apparent.
24 March, 2021
How maths is saving lives in 40 countries
Burnet mathematical modellers are working out the most cost-effective healthcare interventions around the world.
17 March, 2021
Burnet welcomes Australia's urgent COVID-19 support package for PNG
Help is on the way. Crisis support package announced by Australian Government to save lives, protect PNG’s health system, ensure stability in the region and protect the health of Australians.
15 March, 2021
A catastrophe looms with PNG’s COVID crisis. Australia needs to respond urgently
Professors Brendan Crabb and Leanne Robinson outline the case for a rapid and definitive Australian response to PNG’s COVID crisis in The Conversation.
11 March, 2021
AstraZeneca vaccine better when given 12 weeks apart
Study finds AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine doses have better efficacy when given 12 weeks apart. First published on ABC News website.
11 March, 2021
COVID-19 Timeline: How Science Matters
Take a look back at the defining moments of the pandemic, and read about the significant impact Burnet’s work and expertise has made in Australia and globally.
08 March, 2021
International Women's Day
Celebrating Burnet’s women in STEM who are responding to the most pressing global health threats.
07 March, 2021
Vale Jude Byrne
Our friend, a fearless advocate for people who inject drugs, and heart and soul of Australia’s harm reduction response.
05 March, 2021
COVID-19 and the impacts on women
Burnet International Women’s Day event focuses on women and girls most impacted by COVID-19.
05 March, 2021
Hurdles remain to our COVID-19 future, but it’s on the horizon
Professors Mike Toole and Brendan Crabb outline their vision for our COVID future in an editorial for Nine Media.
04 March, 2021
Vale: Dr Paison Dakulala, a close friend and colleague
The Burnet Institute community is deeply saddened to hear of the death of one of PNG’s leading health authorities and campaigner for those most at risk.
01 March, 2021
Three ways to vaccinate the world and make sure everyone benefits, rich and poor
Professor Mike Toole writes in The Conversation.
01 March, 2021
Virtual course improves midwifery educator capacity
Burnet and UNFPA Asia-Pacific midwifery education course adapts to pandemic restrictions to keep focus on improving quality of education.
26 February, 2021
Prestigious US scholarship for Burnet researcher
Burnet public health researcher awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Columbia University.
26 February, 2021
Your vaccine questions answered
Burnet Institute researchers have combined with The New Daily to address popular questions about COVID-19 vaccines and Australia’s vaccination rollout.
23 February, 2021
How a friendship with a mum-to-be in PNG opened Margery’s eyes
Margery Nash started supporting Burnet’s Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Program after seeing expecting mothers enduring hardship in PNG.
22 February, 2021
Burnet welcomes COVID-19 vaccine rollout
Burnet Institute acknowledges and welcomes the commencement of Australia’s COVID-19 vaccination rollout.
17 February, 2021
Biotech exec Jennifer Barnes to lead ambitious, new Burnet Diagnostics Initiative
The new BDI underscores our commitment to translate technologies to solve global health problems.
17 February, 2021
Your messages make it to Ma Sabai in Myanmar
14-year-old Ma Sabai, captured hearts in Australia when we shared her story about the struggle she experienced coping with menstruation, and the help she received from Burnet.
17 February, 2021
How long will COVID-19 vaccinations remain protective?
With AstraZeneca’s vaccine receiving TGA approval in Australia, Professor Mike Toole answers some key questions about it and the Pfizer vaccine.
15 February, 2021
Small holes make for big problems in pandemic Australia
N95 masks should be standard PPE for hotel quarantine workers, say Burnet’s Professors Mike Toole and Brendan Crabb. First published in the Australian Financial Review.
09 February, 2021
Burnet hosts Thai Ambassador
Burnet Institute was honoured to host Her Excellency Ms Busadee Santipitaks, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand.
04 February, 2021
Single dose vaccine data encouraging
Professor Brendan Crabb describes reports a single dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine could offer sustained protection against COVID-19 as encouraging, but requiring further scrutiny.
03 February, 2021
Talking vaccines: Professor Heidi Drummer with ABC Melbourne's Raf Epstein
Enjoy listening again to this fascinating segment where they discuss the COVID-19 vaccines, their efficacy and whether they can prevent transmission.
02 February, 2021
Perth is the latest city to suffer a COVID quarantine breach. Why does this keep happening?
A lack of national standards and the need to take aerosol transmission seriously are just two reasons, Professor Mike Toole AM writes in The Conversation.
01 February, 2021
Tokyo Olympics plan is tempting disaster
The IOC’s push for the Tokyo Olympics to proceed despite Japan’s massive third wave of COVID-19 defies public health logic writes Professor Mike Toole AM in The Age/SMH.
28 January, 2021
New study highlights family planning needs in PNG
A major Burnet-led study identifies needs and priorities to address the low use of family planning methods and reduce high rates of unintended pregnancies among pregnant women in PNG.
27 January, 2021
Progress towards ending TB at risk
COVID-19 pandemic is reversing global progress towards tuberculosis elimination. First published by ANU’s Development Policy Centre.
25 January, 2021
Insect repellent's surprising role in malaria elimination
Repellents to be included in Myanmar’s malaria policy to prevent new infections, in response to world-first Burnet study. Published in IMPACT.
22 January, 2021
New insights into the induction of malaria antibodies
Innovative new research has linked the activation of immune cells to the induction of protective antibodies against malaria.
16 January, 2021
Herd immunity muddies the waters
Professor Brendan Crabb tells The Australian the recent debate about herd immunity and vaccines is a result of Australia’s outstanding success in managing COVID-19.
11 January, 2021
Tracking down outbreaks and causes of fever in PNG
Surveillance and response tool for vector-borne disease now also being used for COVID-19.
09 January, 2021
Australia’s little-recognised vaccine advantage
Professor Heidi Drummer told AFR’s Health Editor Jill Margo, Australia has a ‘window of opportunity’ to get beyond the pandemic.
07 January, 2021
Hang in there, Australia — we’re in great shape but we’re only halfway through the COVID marathon
Professor Brendan Crabb AC and Professor Mike Toole AM write in The Conversation
04 January, 2021
Bring it on: the COVID-19 jab is safe so let's jump-start the Australian rollout
Burnet’s vaccine specialist, Professor Heidi Drummer writes in the SMH and The Age.
04 January, 2021
Mobile immunisation clinics supporting the homeless during COVID-19
Burnet-supported service takes healthcare to Melbourne’s at-risk homeless populations amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
