A Thankful and Changing Research Development

When I first heard about Tonosi the only definition that could come to my mind was a small town in Los Santos, Panama. However, after my visit that perception changed completely.

This trip was an eye-opening, life changing experience since not only did Tonosi have a great impact on the route my research project will take but also in my personal life. My journey started on Monday with the company of three of my lab mates and three other vector technicians.  Our main aim consisted on collecting blood samples from different wild rodents found on a variety of habitats (forest, stubble, maize, improved grass and native grass) within the Agua Buena region.

Through this information we would be able to detect what regions in Panama present the greatest Hantavirus positive rodent population; same that affects humans. Although we followed the same protocol almost every day of the week which consisted in trap placement, mice collection, blood extraction, morphological information and mice release to habitat, I learned something different every day. As a result of our great effort we were able to collect a total of 240 mice of a variety of species in a total of four days.

The blood extractions that we obtained from each individual will allow us to know if it is negative or positive to the virus depending on the specie, sex, age and habitat. This information will help us define the exact areas in which Hanta is active in order to eradicate the virus. . Although our filed research provided us with satisfying results I truly believe that the experience was more valuable to me.

This is due to the fact that I would have never imagine the important role that field work takes and the sacrifice that many scientist and viral technicians do in order to collaborate in the combat of viral diseases. During this past week I was exposed to all types of habitat environments and living conditions, some which could result unpleasant to many since it involves close contact to nature and lack of accessible pure water and other needs.

Although uncomfortable and at some point risky I survived and learned plenty from nature, those that surrounded me and myself. In addition, being alone in the forest with 7 men you being the only women could be an uncomfortable situation but the panorama changes when all of you are there for the same reason and with the aim to make a great scientific change.

I will never again think of Tonosi as a small town somewhere in Panama. To me this place represents a scientific awakening that inspired in me the desire to become a more conscious human being and experienced scientist. Moreover, I cannot stop feeling extremely