Climate-Sensitive Vector Dynamics
Modelling Workshop

Training session pt1 (Environmental covariates)

This session will cover environmental covariates, including where to locate appropriate datasets and how to retrieve, process, and incorporate them into climate-sensitive models. Participants are expected to have prior experience with GIS tools (e.g., ArcGIS or QGIS) and scripting languages (e.g., R or Python).

Training session pt2 (Modelling 1)

This session will cover ordinary differential equation (ODE) models and applications involving artificial intelligence (AI). Participants will explore fundamental concepts by developing and analysing models that incorporate environmental covariates. Prior experience with scripting languages (e.g., R, Python, or Julia) and familiarity with Linux environments are required.

Training session pt3 (Modelling 2)

This session will discuss innovative modelling methodologies, including stochastic, structured, and delayed-response population dynamics models. Participants should have prior experience with Docker containers, the bash command-line interface, and scripting languages (e.g., R, Python, or Julia).

Summary of the previous workshop on Aedes albopictus

This opening session of the Vector Modelling Workshop will introduce the workshop series' concept, summarize the discussions and outcomes from the previous workshop, held in Bologna, Italy (2024), and present the emerging ensemble model on Aedes albopictus.

Modelling Aedes aegypti

This session will commence with a Keynote speech and is dedicated to discussing pressing issues in data collection, modelling, and early warning system design.

The session on surveillance data

This session will discuss the observational data requirements of climate-sensitive mathematical modelling and proceed with latest observations of Aedes aegypti, possible risks to public health, and effective management strategies in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) region.

Models session

This session is dedicated to the presentations of ideas and approaches to model Aedes aegypti dynamics and associated disease risk in the EMME region. Please find more information in this Exercise section.

Discussion

An extended group discussion is reserved to discuss the ideas presented, possible implications, and future actions.

Presentation of the ensemble on Aedes aegypti

Summary of model comparisons to guide our discussion.

First group activity: What are the next steps for modeling development? Share what you found most interesting.

Discussion points: Policy relevance of these models, future directions, and strategies for moving forward.

Plenary discussion

Summary of the previous group activity: One team leader from each group will present their findings, followed by planning for a joint paper that summarizes the conference outcomes and model comparisons.

Training session pt4 (Early warning dashboards)

This session is open to all participants and does not require prior programming experience. Demonstrations of geographical information systems (GIS) and early warning support systems (e.g., the MOOD Platform and the VEClim Platform) will be complemented by hands-on tutorials. Participants are encouraged to bring their laptops or other smart mobile devices to fully engage with the tutorials.