Understanding COVID-19: Minnesota-Cuba Innovations & Research

Leaders in public health and medicine from the University of Minnesota and Cuba gathered at a virtual forum co-sponsored by the School of Nursing to share their experiences working on the frontlines against COVID-19. Panelists explored topics related to public health measures, clinical care and therapies, and the outlook on new vaccines.

“My hope is that this forum opens the door for future engagement and learning,” said University of Minnesota President Joan T.A. Gabel, in her opening statements at the Dec. 16 event

Michael Osterholm, PhD, Regents professor of Public Health, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Policy, provided an overview of COVID in Minnesota, while Francisco Durán, MD, national director of Epidemiology Cuba, provided one for Cuba.

Jakub Tolar, PhD, MD, dean of Medical School, vice president for Clinical Affairs, and Ileana Morales Suarez MD, MS, national director of Science and Technology Innovation for the Ministry of Health, shared their insights related to schools and universities.

Dagmar García, director of research Finlay Vaccine Institute, and Tim Schacker, MD, vice dean for research at the University of Minnesota Medical School, discussed clinical trials and vaccines.

Daniel González, MD, director of Clinical Car Tropical Medical Institute, and Laura Reed, DNP, RN, chief nursing executive and chief operating officer, MHealth Fairview, shared their insights regarding clinical care during and after COVID-19.

“We need your insights and expertise now more than ever,” said U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, in her closing remarks. “If this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that our world is more connected than ever before.”

This event was jointly sponsored by the University of Minnesota School of Nursing, the University of Minnesota School of Public Health and MEDICC Review.