Silvia Nunez Altman

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Silvia Nunez Altman is a dedicated infectious disease researcher whose work focuses on the epidemiology and transfusion safety of emerging arboviruses, particularly the Zika virus. Her most cited study, “Zika virus RNA detection in blood donors in São Paulo, Brazil” (2021), addresses a critical public health concern: the risk of transfusion-transmitted Zika virus from asymptomatic viremic donors. This paper, garnering 4 citations, provides foundational evidence for screening protocols in blood banks during outbreaks, highlighting the prevalence of silent carriers in endemic regions. Altman’s contributions extend beyond this work, as she investigates the intersection of viral pathogenesis and blood safety, aiming to mitigate transmission risks in vulnerable populations. Her research underscores the importance of surveillance in donor pools, a vital step for preventing future epidemics. By bridging virology and public health practice, Altman’s findings have informed policy discussions on donor deferral and nucleic acid testing in Brazil. Her meticulous approach to detecting viral RNA in blood samples showcases her commitment to safeguarding transfusion recipients, making her a key voice in the fight against vector-borne diseases.