Bacterial, Viral and Infectious Diseases

Track 1: Emerging Infectious Diseases

This track explores the rising threat of newly identified pathogens and re-emerging diseases that continue to challenge global health. Discussions will focus on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and global spread of diseases such as Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19. Advances in surveillance systems and outbreak preparedness will also be highlighted. Researchers will present case studies from various regions, showcasing lessons learned from recent epidemics. The track emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public health agencies and laboratories. Strategies for rapid detection and control will also be evaluated. Participants will gain insights into minimizing the global impact of future outbreaks.

Track 2: Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Stewardship

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most pressing public health concerns of our time. This track will focus on the mechanisms of resistance in bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Sessions will cover the misuse and overuse of antibiotics, as well as strategies for stewardship in both healthcare and community settings. Innovative research into alternative therapies, such as phage therapy and new drug targets, will be presented. Case studies of resistance surveillance at national and global levels will provide practical insights. Regulatory frameworks and stewardship policies will be examined. The ultimate aim is to advance effective, sustainable strategies against AMR.

Track 3: Viral Pathogenesis and Immunity

This track dives into the complex interactions between viruses and host immune responses. Presentations will focus on mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and evasion strategies. Advances in molecular virology will provide a deeper understanding of host-pathogen dynamics. Discussions will also highlight immune-mediated protection and pathology during infections. Cutting-edge research on viral-host coevolution will be presented. Special emphasis will be placed on translating these insights into therapeutic and vaccine development. Attendees will gain a comprehensive view of viral pathogenesis and immunity across diverse infections.

Track 4: Advances in Vaccines and Immunotherapies

Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for controlling infectious diseases. This track will showcase advances in next-generation vaccines, including mRNA technologies, DNA vaccines, and vector-based platforms. Immunotherapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and immune modulators, will also be discussed. Sessions will cover challenges in vaccine distribution, hesitancy, and global equity. Research on developing universal vaccines for influenza, HIV, and coronaviruses will be highlighted. Case studies on large-scale immunization programs will provide practical learning. Participants will explore innovations driving future vaccine strategies and immunotherapies.

Track 5: Diagnostics and Point-of-Care Technologies

Accurate and timely diagnosis is essential for controlling infectious diseases. This track emphasizes cutting-edge diagnostic tools, from molecular assays to CRISPR-based tests. Point-of-care technologies that enable rapid detection in remote and resource-limited settings will be highlighted. Advances in multiplex testing and digital health integration will be discussed. Sessions will also cover challenges in affordability, accessibility, and regulatory approvals. Practical examples of diagnostic deployment during outbreaks will be presented. The track aims to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and real-world application.

Track 6: Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Diseases

Zoonoses account for the majority of emerging infections worldwide. This track will focus on diseases transmitted from animals to humans, such as avian influenza, rabies, and Lyme disease. Vector-borne diseases like malaria, dengue, and chikungunya will also be discussed. Researchers will present studies on vector biology, host-pathogen interactions, and ecological drivers of transmission. Climate change and urbanization will be analyzed as factors influencing zoonotic spread. Control strategies, including vaccines, vector management, and public awareness campaigns, will be explored. Participants will gain insights into a One Health approach to combating zoonotic threats.

Track 7: Epidemiology and Surveillance Systems

Understanding disease distribution and trends is key to outbreak prevention. This track highlights the role of epidemiological research and surveillance systems in infectious disease control. Sessions will include modern approaches such as genomic epidemiology, AI-powered surveillance, and predictive modeling. National and global monitoring frameworks will be reviewed. Participants will learn from real-world case studies of surveillance during pandemics. Special attention will be given to the integration of laboratory, clinical, and community data. The track will emphasize building resilient, adaptive systems for early warning and rapid response.

Track 8: Bacterial Infections and Clinical Challenges

This track addresses the diagnosis, treatment, and management of common and rare bacterial infections. Discussions will focus on pneumonia, tuberculosis, sepsis, meningitis, and other critical conditions. Advances in antimicrobial therapies and novel treatment protocols will be highlighted. The track will also include sessions on hospital-acquired infections and multidrug-resistant bacteria. Clinical case studies will provide practical learning opportunities. Strategies for infection control and patient safety will be emphasized. The goal is to equip clinicians and researchers with updated knowledge for tackling bacterial threats.

Track 9: Global Health and Pandemic Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of global preparedness. This track will examine strategies for preventing, detecting, and responding to pandemics. Sessions will explore international collaborations, policy frameworks, and funding mechanisms. Lessons learned from past and recent pandemics will be discussed in detail. Researchers will present models for strengthening health systems and supply chains. The track will also highlight the role of community engagement and trust in crisis response. Participants will gain tools for building resilient, coordinated global health responses.

Track 10: Fungal and Parasitic Infections

Beyond bacterial and viral threats, fungal and parasitic diseases pose serious health risks. This track will cover conditions such as candidiasis, aspergillosis, malaria, leishmaniasis, and schistosomiasis. Advances in diagnosis, drug development, and resistance mechanisms will be discussed. Case studies of outbreaks in immunocompromised populations will provide valuable insights. The track will also explore public health strategies for control and elimination. Research on novel antifungals and antiparasitic therapies will be presented. Attendees will learn about both laboratory and field perspectives on these diseases.

Track 11: Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

This track focuses on effective strategies for reducing healthcare-associated infections. Sessions will emphasize hygiene practices, sterilization techniques, and hospital infection surveillance. New guidelines for antimicrobial stewardship in hospitals will be presented. Discussions will also cover protective measures for healthcare workers. Innovations in disinfection technologies and facility design will be explored. Practical case studies will highlight success stories in IPC programs. The ultimate goal is to promote patient safety and strengthen healthcare systems.

Track 12: Pediatric and Neonatal Infectious Diseases

Children and newborns are especially vulnerable to infections. This track will cover conditions such as neonatal sepsis, respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and congenital infections. Advances in pediatric vaccines, diagnostics, and therapies will be discussed. Sessions will highlight challenges in low-resource settings and global inequities in child health. Emerging research on maternal-fetal transmission will also be presented. Pediatric clinicians will share case studies from clinical practice. Participants will gain insights into protecting the youngest populations through evidence-based interventions.

Track 13: HIV, Hepatitis, and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

HIV and viral hepatitis remain major global health burdens. This track will provide updates on prevention, treatment, and long-term management. Sessions will include advances in antiretroviral therapy, vaccine development, and curative strategies. Research on co-infections and drug resistance will also be discussed. Broader STI challenges, including syphilis and HPV, will be covered. Case studies will highlight global progress and persistent challenges in different regions. Attendees will gain practical knowledge for addressing these critical infections.

Track 14: Influenza and Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections are leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This track will examine influenza, RSV, coronaviruses, and bacterial pneumonias. Advances in vaccines, antivirals, and diagnostics will be presented. Case studies of seasonal and pandemic influenza will provide practical learning. Sessions will also highlight global surveillance networks and preparedness efforts. Research on host-pathogen interactions in the respiratory tract will be shared. Attendees will gain a comprehensive view of respiratory infection control.

Track 15: Host-Pathogen Interactions and Molecular Mechanisms

Understanding host-pathogen dynamics is essential for innovative therapies. This track will cover molecular mechanisms of infection, immune evasion, and disease progression. Advances in genomics, proteomics, and systems biology will be discussed. Research on pathogen adaptation and coevolution will be highlighted. Case studies of host genetic factors influencing susceptibility will be presented. The track will also explore translational applications for diagnostics and vaccines. Attendees will gain deep insights into cutting-edge pathogen biology.

Track 16: Biotechnology and Therapeutics in Infectious Diseases

This track highlights the role of biotechnology in advancing infectious disease solutions. Topics will include biopharmaceuticals, nanotechnology-based drug delivery, and CRISPR applications. Advances in developing novel antivirals, antibiotics, and biologics will be showcased. Sessions will explore collaborations between academia, industry, and healthcare. Startups and innovators will present pipeline products and technologies. The track will also focus on regulatory and ethical considerations in biotech applications. Participants will discover the future landscape of infectious disease therapeutics.

Track 17: One Health Approach to Infectious Diseases

The One Health concept emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. This track will highlight the role of ecosystems in infectious disease emergence. Sessions will cover zoonotic spillovers, antimicrobial use in livestock, and environmental reservoirs. Case studies will demonstrate integrated surveillance and control strategies. The track will also explore cross-sector collaborations and policy development. Discussions will highlight climate change and biodiversity loss as drivers of infection risks. Attendees will learn how One Health strengthens global health security.

Track 18: Genomics and Bioinformatics in Infectious Diseases

Genomic technologies are transforming infectious disease research. This track will cover whole-genome sequencing, metagenomics, and bioinformatics applications. Sessions will demonstrate how genomics aids in outbreak tracing and antimicrobial resistance detection. Advances in big data analytics and AI-driven insights will be presented. Case studies of genomic surveillance during pandemics will be shared. The track will also discuss challenges in data sharing and ethical issues. Participants will explore how genomics is reshaping diagnostics and treatment strategies.

Track 19: Travel Medicine and Tropical Infectious Diseases

Global travel and migration accelerate the spread of infectious diseases. This track will focus on malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and other tropical infections. Sessions will cover diagnostic challenges and prevention strategies for travelers. Advances in prophylaxis and vaccines will be highlighted. Case studies of imported infections in non-endemic regions will provide learning insights. The track will also discuss global surveillance of travel-related diseases. Participants will gain knowledge on protecting travelers and addressing tropical health challenges.

Track 20: Public Health Policies and Global Collaboration

Strong policies and collaborations are essential for fighting infectious diseases. This track will examine the role of governments, NGOs, and international organizations. Sessions will discuss funding priorities, policy frameworks, and equity issues. Research on healthcare access and delivery in different regions will be highlighted. Global initiatives for vaccine distribution and AMR control will be presented. The track will also showcase successful international collaborations. Attendees will gain tools for influencing policies and strengthening global cooperation.