Riding Against Chagas

SEASON 2

SPECIAL – WORLD CHAGAS DISEASE DAY

SEASON 1: ECUADOR’S HIDDEN BLATTLE

This series showcases a motorcycle journey through Ecuador, blending adventure with ecological and cultural exploration. Each episode features a unique route, traversing diverse landscapes like the Andes, Pacific coast, cloud forests and the Southern Loja province. The riders face challenges like mechanical issues and navigation, while also engaging with local communities and critical topics, such as Chagas disease. The series captures the thrill of motorcycle adventuring, the beauty of Ecuador’s varied geography, and highlights important health and ecological issues, offering a mix of excitement, natural wonder, and meaningful insights.

Dr. Mario J. Grijalva is a renowned academic at Ohio University, where he leads the Infectious and Tropical Disease Institute and teaches Microbiology. His primary research focus is on Chagas disease, a significant health issue in the Americas, especially in South and Central America. His work involves studying the pathology of Trypanosoma cruzi infection, understanding Chagas disease’s biology and epidemiology, and enhancing blood supply safety in developing countries. Dr. Grijalva also actively engages in educational initiatives, including student-led field studies in Ecuador, and has established significant partnerships and research facilities focusing on tropical diseases, particularly Chagas disease. His contributions to infectious disease research and education have had a global impact.

Episodes: