Dr Muki Shey
Affiliations
- Associate Member, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine
- Chief Research Officer and Wellcome Intermediate Fellow, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences
- Contributing investigator, Wellcome Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Africa (CIDRI-Africa)
Key Expertise
Biomarker Discovery, Bacterial Infections, Co-Infection, T-and B-cell Immunology, TB, clinical research
Main Research Focus
Muki Shey's main research interest is investigating the immunology and the intersection with genetics (Immunogenetics) of infectious diseases and the contribution of MAIT cells to resistance to Mycobacterium Tuberculosis (M. tb) infection (and TB disease) in highly exposed healthcare workers. He is also interested in Biomarkers including protein and gene signatures that define resistance to infection with M.tb. Other research interests include studying how HIV and other viral diseases, including COVID-19, affect immune responses to M. tb infection.
Most Significant Paper Authored in 2024
P. Bhengu, D. Ndwandwe, S. Cooper, P. D. M. C. Katoto, C. S. Wiysonge, M. Shey. (2024)
This study highlights critical behavioural and social factors influencing HPV vaccine uptake among adolescent girls in eThekwini, South Africa. Despite the vaccine’s proven effectiveness in preventing cervical cancer, uptake remains suboptimal. The research identifies key barriers, including limited awareness, parental influence, healthcare access, and trust in the health system. By unpacking these drivers, the paper offers valuable insight for designing culturally relevant, community-driven interventions. Its findings support the need for targeted education campaigns, stronger healthcare-community partnerships, and policy-level strategies to improve vaccine coverage. Ultimately, this work advances efforts to reduce HPV-related disease burden and promote adolescent health equity in South Africa.