Knowledge Exchange
The Knowledge Exchange platform is an online resource that shares open-access educational modules, webinars, and interactive discussions. ISID’s online learning environment focuses on sharing evidence-based information for infectious disease management, control and prevention in resource-limited settings.
The content hosted on the Knowledge Exchange serves as an enduring resource for practitioners around the globe with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. The Knowledge Exchange regularly shares critical infectious disease knowledge covering a range of global infectious disease priorities and provides content focused on career development and leadership skill-building.
Coming Soon to Knowledge Exchange
Available Now on Knowledge Exchange
Webinars
Speakers:
• Seth Gibson, USA
• Protecting communities from chikungunya virus with strategies to reduce contact between humans and mosquitoes
• Andrew Fiateide, Nigeria
• Knowledge and awareness of chikungunya virus among health workers in Africa
Chair: ISID Executive Committee Member, Neelika Malavige, Sri Lanka
Chikungunya virus is a mosquito-transmitted alphavirus that causes acute fever and acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain in humans. Chikungunya virus is transmitted by mosquitoes, most commonly Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti and Aedes (Stegomyia) albopictus. These mosquitoes bite primarily during daylight hours. With the absence of definitive treatment and widespread vaccination, the main method to reduce transmission of CHIKV is through control of the mosquito vectors. This requires mobilization of communities, particularly to destroy breeding sites of the mosquitoes. There is a need to better understand the epidemiology of chikungunya for better prevention and control measures to be implemented. Due to the challenges in reporting and diagnosis, the number of people affected by chikungunya is underestimated. It is important for health care workers to have a high index of suspicion to request for the right diagnostic tests since chikungunya, dengue and zika have similar symptoms.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speakers:
• David Hamer, USA
• Chikungunya – a threat to international travelers
• Nicola Petrosillo, Italy
• CKG outbreaks in Europe
Chair: ISID Executive Committee Member, Neelika Malavige, Sri Lanka
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an RNA virus in the alphavirus genus of the family Togaviridae. In August 2007, an outbreak of autochthonous chikungunya virus infections was declared in Italy for the first time in Europe. For international travelers, people traveling to areas of active CHIKV transmission should apply basic precautions, including the prevention of mosquito bites by the use of insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and ensuring rooms are fitted with nets to prevent mosquitoes from entering their rooms and houses. Prevention of infection by avoiding mosquito bites is the best protection. According to the World Health Organization, patients suspected of having CHIKV infection should avoid getting mosquito bites during the first week of illness to prevent further transmission to mosquitoes, who may, in turn, infect other people. This measure is crucial for preventing the spread of chikungunya to areas with little or no transmission.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speakers:
• Nadia Atiya, Malaysia
• Current Updates and Advances in the Microbiological Diagnosis of Tuberculosis
• Sadia Shakoor, Pakistan
• Tuberculosis control: disease management, global efforts, and new targets
Chair: Delia Goletti, Italy
TB is a re-emerging disease. According to the WHO, about a quarter of the global population is estimated to be infected with Mycobacteria tuberculosis. About 5-10% of those infected develop symptomatic TB, which they can spread to others. In 2022, TB was the second leading infectious cause of death after COVID-19. TB is preventable and curable. TB can be prevented by the use of the vaccine BCG. BCG is usually given at birth as part of routine immunization for children in most low resource settings. Antibiotics are available for the treatment of TB, however the development of Multi-Drug Resistant TB may necessitate use of second line antibiotics in the treatment of TB. Prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of at-risk groups like those co-infected with HIV is necessary for effective control and management of TB.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
Speakers:
• Mauricio Nogueira, USA
• Chikungunya virus emergence during a Dengue outbreak in Brazil
• Sujatha Sunil, India
• Chikungunya disease in India since its reemergence in 2005
Chair: ISID Executive Committee Member, Neelika Malavige, Sri Lanka
Chikungunya is a mosquito-transmitted alphavirus. Since its emergence in Africa in 1953, the global distribution has rapidly expanded, and the disease has spread to most continents. In the past 20 years, chikungunya has reemerged in the Indian Ocean region and emerged in new areas, including Europe, the Middle East, and the Pacific. The spread to new areas is possible due to the travel of infected persons and mosquitoes in these new areas that can spread the disease. The spread is more in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Dengue and Zika have similar symptoms to chikungunya, making chikungunya easy to misdiagnose in countries where these infections occur. Due to the challenges in reporting and diagnosis, the number of people affected by chikungunya is reported to be underestimated.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speaker:
• Diana Rojas Alvarez, Switzerland
Chair: ISID Council Member, Fingani Mphande-Nyasulu, Thailand
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) has been identified as a priority pathogen and as an emerging infectious disease requiring special action by the World Health Organization (WHO). Its re-emergence is rapid and geographically extensive, it has caused large outbreaks with high attack rates in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Although Chikungunya fever is a self-limiting disease and the associated fatality rate is low, Chikungunya-related death has been reported in certain populations, especially in people with pre-existing conditions.
Since there is no specific treatment, there is a medical need for prophylaxis against CHIKV infection. Some promising preclinical and clinical vaccine candidates have been developed during recent years, involving a wide range of technology platforms including inactivated Viruses and Subunit Vaccines, Live-Attenuated Viruses, Virus-Like Particles, Viral Vector Vaccines, and Nucleic Acid-Based Vaccines. Advancing developments in current candidates in the pipeline as well as further R&D work required is crucial as it is understanding the epidemiological gaps and modeling needs to perform further efficacy trials; in this webinar, some of these aspects will be presented and questions welcomed from the audience.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speakers:
• Nesrine Rizk, AUBMC, Lebanon
• Sepsis Management Challenges - AMR
• Imad Bou Akl, Lebanon
• Sepsis Management Guideline Update
Chair: ISID Executive Committee Member, Jaffar Al-Tawfiq, Saudi Arabia
Co-Chair: ISID Emerging Leader, Vrinda Nampoothiri, India
Sepsis is the body’s extreme response to an infection. Despite recent progress in the understanding and treatment of sepsis, few data or recommendations exist that detail effective approaches to sepsis care in resource-limited low income and middle-income countries. Although few data exist on the burden of sepsis in LMICs, the prevalence of HIV and other comorbid conditions in some LMICs suggest that sepsis is a substantial contributor to mortality in these regions. In well-resourced countries, sepsis management relies on protocols and complex invasive technologies not widely available in most LMICs. However, key concepts and components of sepsis management are potentially translatable to resource limited environments. Health personnel in LMICs should learn how to recognize sepsis and the importance of early and appropriate antibiotic use and laboratory diagnosis of sepsis. Simple and low-cost standardized laboratory testing should be emphasized to allow accurate diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of treatment response. Evidence-based interventions and treatment algorithms tailored to LMIC ecology and resources should thus be developed and validated.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
Speakers:
• Ashley St. John, Singapore
• Targeting Host Pathways for Dengue Treatment
• Eng Eong Ooi, Singapore
• Anti-Dengue Drug Development
Chair: Neelika Malavige, Sri Lanka
Co-Chair: Muhammed Niyas, India
Dengue is a public health problem that continues to increase globally. Dengue is spreading to new areas, including Europe, with some countries reporting first-time local transmission cases. As treatment options are limited, public health control measures include strengthening national programs to meet objectives through coordinated efforts inside and outside the health sector. There is currently no definitive treatment for dengue; only supportive treatment is available for patients with the infection.
However, there have been recent advances in the development of promising drugs for dengue therapeutics, including direct antivirals and host-targeted drugs for reducing inflammation and vascular pathologies. Developing novel vector control methods and new approaches to case management are important for prevention and control. A safe and efficacious vaccine remains the foundation of a comprehensive countermeasure strategy. Recent advances in host-targeted pathways and novel therapeutic approaches are crucial and should be integrated into the research agenda with current vector control tools and vaccination developments.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Takeda.
Speakers:
• Assaf Anyamba, USA
• Forecasting and Risk Mapping
• Lin Chen, USA
• Clinical Trials
Chair: Nicola Petrosillo, Italy
Co-Chair: Laura Talarico, Argentina
Abstract: Chikungunya is a mosquito transmitted alpha virus. Since its emergence in Africa, the global distribution is rapidly expanding, the disease has spread to most continents. The spread to new areas is possible due to the travel of infected persons and presence of mosquitoes in these new areas that are able to spread the disease. The spread has been found to be more in tropical and sub-tropical countries. Several data driven empirical approaches and spatiotemporal forecasting have been used to forecast chikungunya spread in places like the Americas. Some of these forecasting methods have been used to predict infected cases and locations based on machine learning. Although there is currently no specific treatment and vaccine in use, there are several vaccine candidates in different stages of clinical trials that have shown promising results.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speakers:
• Alfonso Rodriguez-Morales, Colombia
• Epidemiological Impact in Latin America
• Nicola Petrosillo, Italy
• The Emerging European Threat
• Kenneth Linthicum, USA
• Vectors and Ecology
Chair: Helena Maltezou, Greece
Co-Chair: Laura Talarico, Argentina
Abstract: Chikungunya is a mosquito borne viral disease caused by the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), a Togaviridae virus, and is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Clinical symptoms include acute onset of fever, debilitating joint and muscle pain, headache, nausea, and rash, potentially developing into long-term serious health impairments. Chikungunya virus causes clinical illness in 72 – 92% of infected humans around 4 to 7 days after an infected mosquito bite. Complications resulting from the disease include visual, neurological, heart and gastrointestinal manifestations; fatalities have been reported in elderly people at higher risk.
Chikungunya outbreaks have been reported in Asia, Africa, the Americas and recently in Europe. Both the medical and economic burden are expected to grow as the CHIKV primary mosquito vectors continue their geographic spread Although there are some candidate vaccines in clinical trials none are licensed. Therefore, chikungunya shall remain a major public health threat.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Valneva.
Speakers:
• Anon Srikiatkhachorn, Thailand
• Compare/Contrast Previous Dengue Vaccines to Next Gen
• Cristina Barroso Hofer, Brazil
• Maternal and Pediatric Dengue
Chair: Finghani Mphande-Nyasulu, Thailand
Co-Chair: Tatiana Pinto, Brazil
Abstract: According to the WHO, the incidence of dengue has increased considerably in recent decades. Dengue is now endemic in more than 100 countries in Africa, the Americas, the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific. Asia bears about 70% of the global burden of dengue. There is no specific treatment for dengue. So far only one dengue vaccine CYD-TDV has been licensed for use. It is currently in use in about 20 countries globally. There are several candidate vaccines in different stages of development, some are currently in various stages of Clinical Trials. Several challenges have been faced in the development of the vaccines, some of which include the nature of the virus itself that has four serotypes and the immune response to the vaccine.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Takeda.
Speakers:
• Wanwisa Dejnirattisai, Thailand
• Advances in Understanding Dengue Immunology & Pathogenesis
• Nguyen Lam Vuong, Vietnam
• Biomarker Update (Diagnostics and Pathogenesis)
• Damien Ming, UK
• Novel Diagnostics and Innovations
Chair: Sophie Yacoub, Vietnam
Co-Chair: Yeo Tsin Wen, Singapore
Abstract: Dengue is the fastest spreading mosquito-borne viral disease; a distinction the WHO recognized when naming it a Top 10 threat to global health. Dengue is mainly spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and, to a lesser extent, Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. It is caused by one of the four dengue serotypes, each of which can cause dengue fever or severe dengue. Dengue is pandemic prone, and outbreaks are generally observed in tropical and subtropical areas. However, recent outbreaks have affected the continental United States and Europe. An estimated 40% of the world is at risk now lives with this threat. There has been a significant increase in number of dengue cases over the years, despite improvements in case management and a reduction in the Case Fatality Rate. Increased surveillance, better case management, innovative vector control and diagnostics may improve control efforts globally.
This webinar is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Takeda.
Speakers:
• Gonzalo Bearman, USA
• Paul Tambyah, Singapore
• Mohammed Yahaya, Nigeria
Moderator: Terry Schraeder, USA
Learning Objectives:
- Learn the importance of making IPC guidelines practical, relevant and inclusive for all countries and all settings
- ISID Guide to Infection Control in the Healthcare Setting: Review the history and usage of this international resource now in its 6th edition
- Obtain information and knowledge from firsthand experiences of IPC successes in Nigeria
- Listen to discussion on how to improve understanding, compliance and practice of IPC globally
Speakers:
• Jesus Rodriguez-Manzano, UK
• An Introduction to Novel Diagnostics
• Ling-Shan Yu, Taiwan
• Global Environmental Change and Dengue Outbreak Preparedness
Chair: Sadia Shakoor, Pakistan
Co-Chair: Bethany Davies, Australia
Abstract: Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) including point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, provide rapid diagnosis near the patient, often within accessible healthcare settings such as outpatient departments, screening sites and in primary care facilities. In contrast to conventional diagnostic assays, which typically rely upon specialised staff and centralised well equipped laboratories, POC tests are simple to use and can support timely, responsive infection management and disease surveillance. They are particularly important within low-resources settings where access to reliable power, cold-chain facilities and specialised laboratories may be limited. Emerging innovations in POC diagnostics, including sample preparation, molecular detection and data analytics offer further opportunities to improve performance, access and expand their role within infectious disease management.
This webinar is supported with an Unrestricted Educational Grant from bioMérieux.
Faculty:
• Shirani Chandrasiri, Sri Lanka
• Esmita Charani, UK
• Duminda Samarasinghe, Sri Lanka
• Seif Al-Abri, Oman
Abstract: This session will review some of the AMR challenges faced in low and middle income countries. AMR is a growing problem globally. The increase in resistance of microbes to antimicrobials is outpaced by the development of effective and safe antimicrobial agents. AMR has both health and economic impacts particularly in low and middle income countries. In low resource settings, there is low availability and high costs of some of the laboratory tests routinely conducted in high income countries to manage AMR. This grand round presentation is a clinical case presentation of an infectious disease with eventful progression in a middle income country.
This webinar is supported with an Unrestricted Educational Grant from bioMérieux.
Speaker: Raina MacIntyre, Australia
Abstract: COVID-19 eradication is unlikely. During the pandemic, as vaccination programs began nearly everywhere, herd immunity was suggested as the outcome to control SARS CoV-2 replication and dissemination. However today, as we are facing waning vaccine efficacy, new variants of the virus with different pathogenic patterns, scientists and public health authorities are suggesting the pandemic is over and that we are in an endemic phase. Raina MacIntyre explains why this is not so, and that SARS-CoV-2 will continue to cause epidemics and likely a substantial burden of chronic disease. Better control will improve these outcomes.
To achieve this, a vaccine-PLUS strategy is needed, with layered protections including testing, tracing, safe indoor air, and masks. Vaccine equity globally must also be addressed.
Podcasts
Speaker:
• Delia Goletti, Italy
Facilitated by & Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Abstract:
Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the world’s deadliest diseases, although it is both preventable and curable. March 24th was designated as World Tuberculosis Day, worldwide infectious diseases experts unite to renew the commitment to end the global TB pandemic. In this podcast, the latest updates in TB will be discussed.
This podcast is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
Speaker:
• Aslam Khan, USA
Facilitated by & Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Learning Objectives:
- How are dengue viruses transmitted? Which populations are most at risk of contracting dengue?
- What do current prevention strategies for dengue look like? Are there particularly effective interventions outside of vaccination?
- What are the different types of DENV? Do they produce different forms of disease? Are certain DENV types more common than others?
- Does infection with one virus type reduce the risk of infection from other types? Would vaccination help patients who have had dengue infection before?
- What are the currently available vaccines? Can you talk about the effectiveness of CYD-TDV (Dengvaxia)? Why is CYD-TDV not recommended for people who do not have dengue seropositivity?
- What are the components of the TAK-003 vaccine? How is it different from CYD-TDV? What is the efficacy of the TAK-003 vaccine?
- For how long do these vaccinations provide immunity?
- Is there a sense of confidence level the general public has in these dengue vaccines? How much dengue vaccination hesitancy has been observed?
- What is the cost of the vaccines?
- Within the DENV space, are there any areas of study that you are keeping an eye on and interested in seeing develop?
This podcast is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Takeda.
Speaker:
• Aslam Khan, USA
Facilitated by & Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Learning Objectives:
- What is the estimated burden of dengue disease worldwide? In which areas of the world is the burden of dengue the greatest?
- What is the WHO 1997 classification of dengue? How did the 2009 WHO revised classification scheme address criticisms of the original 1997 classification scheme? Are there newer revisions to the classification scheme of dengue infections?
- What are the symptoms of DENV infections? What are the “warning signs” of more severe disease? What are the phases of infection?
- How is dengue diagnosed? What else do you keep on the differential?
- Do certain virus types of dengue cause more severe disease than others? Which populations tend to have more severe disease?
- How is dengue treated?
This podcast is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Takeda.
Speaker:
• Afreenish Amir, Pakistan
Facilitated by & Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Learning Objective:
This podcast covers innovations in tackling AMR with a discussion of AI solutions, advanced diagnostics, newer treatments, and vaccines in AMR.
This podcast is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
Speakers:
• Dimie Ogoina, Nigeria
• David Hamer, USA
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Learning Objectives:
- Learn more about the latest surge of cases of Mpox
- Listen to discussion about the history of this DNA zoonotic virus
- Understand why public health officials are worried and the knowns/unknowns about this global emergency
- Hear analysis of problems with diagnosis, control, treatment, and prevention in different parts of the world
Speaker: Anucha Apisarnthanarak, Thailand
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Learning Objectives:
- MDR organisms of most concern in the ICU
- Pressures driving MDR in Thailand and elsewhere
- How COVID-19 impacted MDR
- Message about MDR from Asia
Speaker: Bassem Zayed, Jordan
Chaired by:
• Enrique Castro-Sanchez, UK
• Angel Desai, USA
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Abstract: In this podcast, ISID Emerging Leaders Enrique Castro-Sanchez and Angel Desai speak with Dr. Bassem Zayed, Medical Officer, Infection Prevention and Control at the World Health Organization regarding challenges encountered during public health and humanitarian emergencies.
Speaker: Professor Olga Perovic, South Africa
Chaired by:
• Afreenish Amir, Pakistan
• David Moore, South Africa
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced
Abstract: This podcast covers important aspects of AMR surveillance including the prevalence of drug resistant infections, what constitutes an AMR surveillance team and the importance of surveillance for understanding the burden of AMR and informing its solutions.
Professional Development Workshops
Speaker: Professor Shui Shan Lee, Editor-in-Chief, International Journal of Infectious Diseases (IJID), Hong Kong
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder
Learning Objectives:
- Review fundamentals of writing including grammar, syntax, and structure
- Advice on the best use of graphics, illustrations, and photographs for publication
- Discuss submission and use of early drafts of articles, open access, and impact factors
- Learn specifics of selecting the right journal, preparing for submission, and following author guidelines
- Gain knowledge of best practices for reviews, revisions, and rebuttals
Panelists from InterPro Translation Solutions:
- Leticia Barroso, Project Manager
- Adriana Romano, Senior Project Manager
- Dean Haman, Business Development Manager
- Beshar Bahjat, Vice President
Moderator: Teresa L. Schraeder
Learning Objectives:
- Review common experiences when presenting your work to different audiences and in different languages
- Learn best practices while using a translator and how and when to engage translation services
- Understand common mistakes when communicating across different cultures and communities
- Gain knowledge on best tenets and principles to ensure your presentation and communication is clear, engaging, and accurate
Abstract:
In this short video, we will provide a general overview of the steps included in most grant applications and share helpful tips to ensure you are prepared to submit a strong proposal. Please note, this video is not specific to any grant application and you should carefully review your grant’s guidelines to include all requested information.
References:
- ISID Knowledge Exchange - Document Library. Checklist: Beginning the grant writing process
- Planning and Writing a Grant Proposal: The Basics. The Writing Center of the University of Wisconsin - Madison
- University of Kansas, Center for Community Health and Development. Community tool box “ 14. Applying for grants”
- Elsevier Research Academy
- US NIH grant application resources
Produced by the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID) in collaboration with Pfizer Global Medical Grants.
Speaker: Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D., United States
Abstract: This workshop will help you learn more about the news media including their roles, responsibilities, training, needs, deadlines and motives. We will discuss the impact of the media on perceptions, understanding and behavior of the public, patients, societies, institutions, and governments. You will learn lessons and specific skills to help you prepare to engage with the media. You will learn how to educate and inform the public on different topics in different settings and regarding types of events through the media. We will review the potential benefits and risks of engaging with the media.
This workshop is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Speaker: Dr. Terry Schraeder
Abstract: Physicians and healthcare leaders may have many important opportunities to give public speeches and presentations as well as engage with traditional and digital media throughout their careers. Speaking to live audiences, giving online video presentations, answering questions at press conferences and being interviewed by journalists are just a few examples. Learning how to be confident, clear, calm, concise, and engaging in front of an audience, as well as honing the message and improving specific communication skills in a variety of settings are imperative to help optimize a speaker’s message and mission.
Knowledge Exchange Scientific Committee
Professor Paul Tambyah
National University of Singapore, Singapore
Conflict of Interest
Professor Neelika Malavige
University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Sri Lanka
Conflict of Interest
Professor Sally Roberts
University of Auckland, School of Medicine, New Zealand
Conflict of Interest
Professor Alison Holmes
Imperial College London, United Kingdom
Conflict of Interest
For sponsorship opportunities, please email [email protected].
Dr. Connie Walyaro
Talk AB[M]R - Talking Resistance - ARDI, Kenya
Professor Robert Heyderman
NIHR Global Health Research Unit on Mucosal Pathogens
London, UK
Conflict of Interest
Dr. Gonzalo Bearman
Virginia Commonwealth University, United States
Dr. Jaffar Al-Tawfiq
Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
Professor Marc Mendelson
University of Cape Town, South Africa
Conflict of Interest
Dr. Helena Maltezou
Hellenic Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Greece
Speaker: Fatima Hassan, Founder, Health Justice Initiative, South Africa
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Abstract: Three billion people worldwide have not received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine. While the majority of citizens in several wealthy countries are fully vaccinated, low- and middle-resourced countries have the lowest rates of vaccination. The average vaccination rate of all African countries is 15 percent. Some countries on the African continent have only single digit vaccination rates and only a minority of their health care workers are fully vaccinated. The World Health Organization has pushed to prioritize first doses for the unvaccinated before extra boosters for wealthy countries.
Fatima Hassan, human rights lawyer and activist, is the director of the Health Justice Initiative in South Africa. She is working to increase access to vaccinations, testing, and treatment for all countries with a particular emphasis on the southern hemisphere.
Speakers:
• Professor Jennifer Hoy, Australia
• What’s New in Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
• Associate Professor Iskandar Azwa, Malaysia
• Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) Updates
• Dr. Rayner Tan, Singapore
• HIV Stigma in Healthcare Settings
Chair: Professor Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Malaysia
Co-Chair: Dr. Seif Al-Abri, Oman
Abstract: This session will review the progress for HIV treatment expansion on a global scale, timing of initiation of antiretroviral therapy and will provide updates on pre-exposure prophylaxis. Researchers will present data with associated outcomes on recent interventions that identify and provide treatment and prevention programs to at risk populations residing in low- and middle-income countries. Additionally, attention will be devoted to HIV related stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings and how to provide equitable access to HIV prevention and care.
*This webinar is in collaboration with the International AIDS Society (IAS).
Speakers:
• Professor Cameron Simmons, Australia
• Innovations in Vector Control Strategies
• Associate Professor Rachel Lowe, United Kingdom
• Global Environmental Change and Dengue Outbreak Preparedness
• Professor Lucy Lum, Malaysia
• A Strategic Approach to Dengue Management
Chair: Professor Athanase Badolo, Burkina Faso
Co-Chair: Dr. Veasna Duong, Cambodia
Abstract: The number of people affected by mosquito-borne diseases is rapidly growing. In recent years, population growth, climate change, increase in international travel, and the movement of people from rural areas to cities have all increased the spread of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. According to the World Health Organization, the global incidence of dengue has grown dramatically in recent decades. Currently, about half of the world's population is at risk for dengue and recent studies estimate that up to 90% of the global population could be at risk by the end of this century. The predicted expansion of vectors towards higher altitudes and temperate regions suggests that dengue outbreaks will occur in areas where people might be immunologically naive and public health systems unprepared. During this session, experts will discuss new modeling studies that forecast the global distribution of Aedes aegypti and the drivers of the expanded reach such as climate change and urbanization. They will discuss updates in the clinical management of dengue outbreaks and highlight recent innovations in vector control strategies such as the deployment of Wolbachia-carrying mosquitoes.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Takeda.
Speakers:
- Professor Lulu Bravo, Philippines
- Professor Francois Venter, South Africa
Moderators:
- Professor Alison Holmes, United Kingdom
- Professor Paul Tambyah, Singapore
- Dr. Afreenish Amir, Pakistan
Abstract: With the world’s attention and resources focused towards COVID-19 prevention and response efforts, we have witnessed widespread disruptions to HIV, TB and malaria service delivery programs globally with shortages in medical supplies, treatments and diagnostics. As observed during previous crises, the indirect morbidity and mortality effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may be as important as the direct effects of the pandemic itself. Existing infectious diseases management and prevention programs have been hit by lockdowns, changing funding priorities and re-allocation of staff and resources. This webinar is a follow up to the webinar published on October 7, 2020, when Lulu Bravo and Francois Venter discussed COVID-19’s early impact on childhood vaccinations and the provision of TB and HIV care during the evolving pandemic. Much data has been collected and analyzed since then to better understand the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevention and management of communicable diseases.
Speakers:
• Sade Ogunsola, Nigeria
• Andrew Whitelaw, South Africa
• Winnie Nambatya, Uganda
• Ibrahim Mugerwa, Uganda
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Learning Objectives:
- Review the global threat of antimicrobial resistance
- Learn about antimicrobial stewardship in low- and moderate-resourced countries
- Evaluate importance of microbiology labs in clinical settings
- Review obstacles and solutions for antibiotic stewardship programs in various countries
Speakers:
• Dr. Sadia Shakoor, Pakistan
• Dr. Basista Rijal, Nepal
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn how clinical microbiologists help antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) in limited resource settings
- Review the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in low- and middle-income countries (LIMC)
- Examine the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on resource-limited settings
- Review the microbiologists' many roles, from pathogen identification and hospital infection control to vaccine development and public health care practitioner
*This podcast has been created thanks to an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
ISID Podcast Episode 7: Implementing Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Resource Limited Settings
Speakers:
• Dr. Gabriel Levy Hara, Argentina
• Pharmacist Angeliki Messina, South Africa
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Learning Objectives:
- Review global health threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
- Learn how AMR may have worsened during COVID-19 pandemic
- Listen to discussion of the importance of ASPs including successes and obstacles in LMIC
- Examine growing need for global antimicrobial stewardship including surveillance, education, and support
*This podcast has been created thanks to an unrestricted educational grant from bioMérieux.
Speakers:
• Professor Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Malaysia
• Associate Professor Nada Melhem, Lebanon
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Abstract: In the past forty years of the AIDS pandemic, 80 million people were infected, 36 million died and nearly 38 million people are living with HIV today.
In this podcast you will:
• Review some of the milestones of the last four decades of the HIV/AIDS pandemic
• Learn how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted prevention services, testing and treatment
• Listen to discussion of continuing search for a vaccine and a cure
• Reflect on the social determinants of health and HIV
• Examine the continuing discrimination and stigmatization against individuals living with HIV
Speakers:
• Dr. Marjorie Pollack, Deputy Editor of ProMED, USA
• Dr. Latiffah Hassan, Co-Chair IMED 2021, Malaysia
• Dr. Britta Lassmann, Co-Chair IMED 2021, USA
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Abstract: The 8th IMED focused its attention on COVID-19 through a One Health lens. It included talks by WHO's Maria Van Kerkhove in Switzerland, Lin-fa Wang from Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore, and many others. IMED 2021 drew attendees from more than 95 countries worldwide. Speakers presented on topics including the origins and evolution of SARS-CoV-2; vaccine efficacy, longevity and next generation development; climate change and infectious diseases; data sharing, transparency and cooperation; surveillance; scientific illiteracy, social media and politics; and how best to predict and prepare for the next pandemic.
Speaker: Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, Switzerland
Chair: Dr. Marjorie Pollack, ProMED Deputy Editor, USA
Abstract: COVID-19 - How Far Have We Come, and Where Do We Go? - Featuring Maria Van Kerkhove, the World Health Organization's technical lead on the coronavirus pandemic. This talk will cover the global epidemiological situation and the drivers of global trends, the World Health Organization’s comprehensive strategy for coordinated public health action, possible trajectories for the current phase of the pandemic, and what it will take to return to a new normal.
Speakers:
• Professor Eskild Petersen, Denmark
• Professor Cecilia Maramba-Lazarte, Phillippines
• Dr. Rosemary Olivero, USA
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Abstract: This podcast will provide a review of available epidemiologic reporting data for pediatric COVID cases. We will also address the issues of vaccination within different age groups, testing and immunity. Physiologic reactions – which can be much different than in adults – severity and the specific impact of the Delta variant will be discussed.
Speakers:
• Professor Shabir Madhi, South Africa
• Professor Andrew Pollard, UK
Moderator: Professor Neelika Malavige, ISID Executive Committee, Sri Lanka
Abstract: As COVID-19 variants continue to emerge and spread globally, ISID is pleased to provide an expert panel to discuss latest developments. This webinar will continue our review of the COVID-19 pandemic by examining how SARS-CoV-2 has mutated, the different variants - including delta and lambda - and the impact on fragile, or at risk communities. Special consideration will be given to the paediatric population. We shall also discuss the impact of these variants on the efficacy of current vaccines and how to prevent the emergence of future variants.
Speakers:
• Professor Eskild Petersen, Editor-in-Chief of the IJID, Denmark
• Professor Michael Baker, Professor of Public Health, New Zealand
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Speakers:
• Dr. Anthony Fiore, MPH, USA
• Professor Paul Tambyah, Singapore
Moderators:
• Professor Marc Mendelson, ISID Past President, South Africa
• Dr. Afreenish Amir, ISID Emerging Leader, Pakistan
Abstract:
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest global health threats. Antibiotics are becoming increasingly ineffective as drug-resistance spreads leading to more difficult to treat infections. Fighting this threat is a public health priority that requires a collaborative global approach across sectors. Controlling AMR demands improvements in infection prevention, antimicrobial stewardship, and antimicrobial discovery. A powerful measure to reduce the use of antimicrobials, and hence development of resistance, is to prevent the occurrence of infections. Vaccines can impact AMR in two ways. Vaccines can reduce or eliminate the risk of infection due to antibiotic-resistant strains, for example pneumococcal vaccine. Vaccines can also have a secondary effect on AMR by preventing antibiotic use by reducing the rates of viral febrile illness episodes and the likelihood of secondary bacterial infections following the prevented episode. Viral infections are a strong driver of use and misuse of antibiotics and vaccines are an impactful and effective public health measure for the prevention of many viral infections. Single or combination vaccines may ultimately result in synergistic effects on decreasing antimicrobial use and therefore resistance. In this way, vaccines targeting viral illnesses become a tool to reinforce policies of antibiotic stewardship. WHO has developed a strategy to articulate the role of vaccines against AMR and an action framework that describes a vision for vaccines to contribute fully, sustainably and equitably to the prevention and control of antimicrobial resistance by preventing infections and reducing antimicrobial use. During this webinar, speakers will discuss how vaccines targeting viral illnesses contribute to the battle against AMR by preventing infections and by reducing antimicrobial use.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Sanofi Pasteur.
Speakers:
• Professor Eskild Petersen, Editor-in-Chief of the IJID, Denmark
• Associate Professor Lin Chen, Harvard Medical School, USA
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Speakers:
• Professor Eskild Petersen, Editor-in-Chief of the IJID, Denmark
• Professor Shui Shan Lee, Associate Editor, Hong Kong
Facilitated by Teresa L. Schraeder, M.D.
Produced by Amador (Tino) Delamerced, B.A.
Description:
The learning objectives of this podcast are:
- Learn more about the International Journal of Infectious Diseases (IJID)
- Review important instructions for authors
- Highlight specific lessons for research and writing
- Discuss common mistakes in submitting a manuscript
* This podcast is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Pfizer.
Presentando:
• Professor Alfonso Rodriguez-Morales, Technological University of Pereira, Colombia
• Unusual Presentations
• Professor Bridget Wills, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Vietnam
• Clinical Management - Innovations and Controversies
Moderado por:
• Professor Neelika Malavige, ISID Executive Committee, Sri Lanka
• Dr. Laura Talarico, ISID Emerging Leader, Argentina
Descripción: El dengue es una de las enfermedades virales transmitidas por mosquitos más comunes en todo el mundo. El dengue causa un amplio espectro de enfermedades que van desde enfermedades subclínicas hasta síntomas graves similares a los de la gripe en las personas infectadas. En la actualidad, el dengue grave afecta a la mayoría de los países de Asia y América Latina y se ha convertido en una de las principales causas de hospitalización y muerte entre niños y adultos en estas regiones. Los síntomas y los hallazgos de laboratorio similares entre el dengue y la enfermedad por coronavirus (COVID-19) pueden representar un desafío para el diagnóstico en los países donde el dengue es endémico. Los oradores discutirán el uso de diagnósticos con un enfoque en la implementación en regiones endémicas y presentarán innovaciones y controversias en el manejo clínico del dengue severo, incluido el uso de terapias novedosas. Los oradores también destacarán los desafíos de las presentaciones inusuales que ahora se ven con mayor frecuencia, incluido el daño orgánico específico inducido por el dengue no relacionado con el shock, como la enfermedad hepática o la encefalitis, y las presentaciones en los ancianos.
* Este seminario web está financiado por una beca educativa sin restricciones de Takeda.
Speakers:
• Professor Alfonso Rodriguez-Morales, Technological University of Pereira, Colombia
• Unusual Presentations
• Professor Bridget Wills, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Vietnam
• Clinical Management - Innovations and Controversies
Moderators:
• Professor Neelika Malavige, ISID Executive Committee, Sri Lanka
• Dr. Laura Talarico, ISID Emerging Leader, Argentina
Abstract: Dengue is one of the most common mosquito-borne viral illnesses worldwide. Dengue causes a wide spectrum of diseases ranging from subclinical disease to severe flu-like symptoms in those infected. Today, severe dengue affects most Asian and Latin American countries and has become a leading cause of hospitalization and death among children and adults in these regions. Similar symptoms and laboratory findings between dengue and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can pose a diagnostic challenge in dengue-endemic countries. Speakers will discuss the use of diagnostics with a focus on implementation in endemic regions and present innovations and controversies in the clinical management of severe dengue, including the use of novel therapeutics. Speakers will also highlight the challenges of unusual presentations that are now seen in higher frequency including Dengue-induced organ-specific damage unrelated to shock such as liver disease or encephalitis and presentations in the elderly.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Takeda.
Speakers:
• Dr. Mirfin Mpundu, Director, ReAct Africa, Zambia
• Successful Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Resource-Constrained Settings
• Dr. Manica Balasegaram, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Switzerland
• Introducing New Antimicrobials for Multi-drug Resistant Pathogens in High Endemic Settings
Moderators:
• Professor Alison Holmes, President, ISID, United Kingdom
• Dr. Esmita Charani, ISID Emerging Leader, United Kingdom
Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health accelerated, in part, by the misuse of antibiotics. The lack of access to antibiotics in resource constrained settings continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality, while the overuse of antibiotics accelerates the global spread of drug resistant organisms. It is critical to ensure access to appropriate antimicrobials while measuring and improving prescribing practices of clinicians and use by patients. During this webinar, speakers will address the unique challenges of successfully implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs in resource constrained settings to optimize clinical outcomes while minimizing unintended consequences of antimicrobial use such as: toxicity, selection of pathogenic organisms (Clostridioides difficile), and the emergence of resistance. They will discuss the introduction of new antimicrobials in high-endemic settings and ways to ensure these treatments are available to those in need while also using them sparingly to limit the development of drug resistance.
*This webinar is supported with an Unrestricted Educational Grant from bioMérieux.
Speakers:
• Professor Thuy Le, Duke University, United States
• Talaromyces marneffei
• Professor Henry Mwandumba, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Malawi
• Cryptococcus neoformans
Moderators:
• Professor William Hope, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
• Professor Sophie Yacoub, ISID Emerging Leader, Vietnam
Abstract: The aim of implementing an antifungal stewardship program is to optimize the use of antifungal drugs to achieve the best outcomes while minimizing adverse events and the emergence of resistance. Antifungal stewardship is less established than antibacterial stewardship because of a narrower and more complex evidence base along with fewer available drugs. Moreover, the diagnosis of fungal infections can be complex with an urgent need for reliable noninvasive and rapid diagnostic tests that can be used across different resource levels. During this session, experts will provide updates on the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and prevention strategies for Cryptococcus neoformans and Talaromyces marneffei (formerly Penicillium marneffei), both important opportunistic pathogens in patients with AIDS and other immunosuppressive conditions. Focus will be on diagnostic options and treatment and prevention strategies in areas with highest burden of disease, from Southeast Asia to southern China and sub-Saharan Africa.
*This webinar is supported with an Unrestricted Educational Grant from bioMérieux.
Introduction:
• Dame Sally Davies, UK Special Envoy, AMR
Speakers:
• Dr. Ghassan Matar, Lebanon
• Dr. Sophie Bowman-Derrick, Australia
• Mr. Emmanuel Benyeogor, Nigeria
Moderator:
• Dr. Matt Levison, Chair, United States
Abstract: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the greatest challenges in modern medicine. Often referred to as the ‘slow-burning pandemic’, AMR is estimated to cause 700,000 deaths annually. This statistic does not consider deaths among animals and the impact AMR has on our food system and the environment. To preserve the effectiveness of these therapies, we must change our use behaviors to limit the unnecessary use of these treatments. This webinar highlights the universal challenge of AMR and shines a light on critical issues that must be addressed quickly. Attendees will hear from experts in the AMR field, and user-submitted questions will be answered by AMR experts who operate the ProMED-AMR infectious disease surveillance network. Specific topics addressed throughout the presentation include the global impact of AMR, AMR and the One Health Paradigm, AMR in the veterinary community, AMR surveillance, and AMR in the era of ‘big data.
*This event is made possible with the support of Public Health England (PHE).
Speakers:
• Professor Ann Falsey, Professor of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine, New York, United States
• The Global Burden of Influenza Morbidity and Mortality
• Professor Bruno Lina, Professor of Virology, Lyon, France
• The Impact of COVID-19 on Influenza Surveillance and Transmission
• Professor Zamberi Sekawi, ISID Executive Committee Member, Malaysia
• The Impact of Influenza Vaccines on Public Health
Moderators:
• Professor Patricio Acosta, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez - CONICET, Argentina
• Dr. Therese Umuhoza, ProMED Moderator, Rwanda
Abstract: WHO estimates that seasonal influenza may result in 290,000 – 650,000 deaths each year due to respiratory diseases alone. This estimate does not take into account deaths from other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, which can be influenza-related. Surveillance and laboratory studies of all influenza-related diseases are ongoing and are expected to reveal substantially higher estimates of disease burden. Webinar attendees will engage with experts who will provide updates on global influenza surveillance efforts and estimated burden of disease. They will discuss the importance of country-level influenza estimates to inform national and global preparedness, prevention and control efforts and will highlight remaining gaps. The clinical, social, and economic advances gained from expanded access and uptake of influenza vaccines will be addressed and the lack of reliable data on the possible impact of vaccination among specific high-risk groups will be highlighted.
The full impact of COVID-19 and non-pharmaceutical interventions on seasonal influenza remains to be determined. Experts will discuss questions around the impact of COVID-19 on influenza surveillance, the role of genomic sequencing for influenza surveillance as a way to better understand disease spread and improve prevention efforts and what to expect during the next influenza season.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Sanofi Pasteur.
Speakers:
• Dr. Brenda Kwambana-Adams, Research Associate, Division of Infection & Immunity, University College, London, United Kingdom
• Equitable and Sustainable Access to Meningococcal Vaccines
• Professor Marco A. Safadi, Head, Department of Pediatrics, Santa Casa de São Paulo, Brazil
• Atypical Presentations and the Impact of COVID-19
Moderators:
• Professor Rob Heyderman, ISID Executive Committee Member, UK
• Dr. Christina Obiero, ISID Emerging Leader, Kenya
Abstract:
Meningococcal meningitis is a devastating disease with high mortality and long-term sequelae even in successfully managed cases. Although the burden of disease is greatest in the meningitis belt of sub-Saharan Africa, meningitis is a world-wide threat. Recent epidemics in Liberia, Nigeria, Togo, Niger, Guinea, Kyrgyzstan, Fiji and Chile and the spread of some virulent strains across the world has emphasized the need for a global approach to surveillance and prevention.
In this session, experts will discuss the urgent need for improved monitoring of invasive meningococcal disease and sequelae globally, will discuss the use of whole genome sequencing, strain typing and rapid diagnostics to better understand outbreak epidemiology and burden of disease and will provide updates on the emergence of new clones and hypervirulent strains. They will review WHO’s recently released Defeating Meningitis by 2030 Global Roadmap and what it will take to make vaccines widely available in low- and middle-income countries.
The clinical presentations of meningococcal disease can vary. Recent observations suggest that certain serogroups may present with atypical signs and symptoms such as acute gastrointestinal symptoms, septic arthritis, bacteremic pneumonia or severe upper respiratory infection. Experts will discuss atypical clinical presentations which can be associated with higher case fatality rates and misdiagnoses. The immediate and longer-term impact of COVID-19 on meningococcal disease and meningococcal vaccine schedules is currently unclear and needs to be determined.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Sanofi Pasteur.
Speakers: Assistant Professor Michelle Doll, Professor Shaheen Mehtar, Professor Ziad Memish, Professor Victor Rosenthal, Professor Mike Stevens, Professor Sade Ogunsola
Moderator: Professor Gonzalo Bearman
Abstract: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted both challenges and opportunities for infection control practices at healthcare facilities around the globe. In this moderated discussion, infection prevention and control experts will describe how they responded to the pandemic and what they did to quickly adapt existing healthcare protocols. Speakers will describe how these approaches and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic can help us better prepare for future outbreaks. Questions addressed during this webinar will include: Will the re-use of personal protective equipment become standard practice in the future? What can we expect in terms of face mask requirements over the next few years? How can surveillance, reporting and laboratory structures established during the pandemic be maintained in the future?
With generous support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ISID presents research selected for presentation at the 19th International Congress on Infectious Diseases (ICID). This collection of ePosters reflects the contributions of early-career investigators working to advance our understanding of infectious disease challenges in low-resource settings. These studies were selected from over 1,900 abstracts due to their quality and the valuable knowledge they add to the field of infectious diseases. With topics ranging from antimicrobial resistance, disease surveillance, HIV situational assessments, metagenomics, arboviruses, and public health epidemiology, there is something to engage all interests. As you interact with these ePosters, please feel free to leave a comment or question for the researchers.
Speaker: Professor Shabir Madhi, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
Moderator: Professor Neelika Malavige, ISID Executive Committee Member, Sri Lanka
Abstract: Where are we with delivering safe, efficacious COVID-19 vaccines globally? What are the challenges and opportunities? This webinar provides important updates in the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines and an overview of ongoing Phase 3 trials. Attention will be paid to the vaccination of special groups such as immunocompromised individuals, children and pregnant women. We also discuss the elements required to achieve herd immunity and answer your questions about COVID-19 vaccination!
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Pfizer Global Medical Grants.
*Please Note: Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 environment, some of the information presented in this webinar may no longer be up to date.
Speakers:
Professor Gagandeep Kang, ISID Executive Committee Member, India
- Global Access
Dr. Heidi Larson, The Vaccine Confidence Project, United Kingdom
- How Vaccine Rumors Start & Why They Don’t Go Away
Moderator: Professor Paul Tambyah, ISID President-Elect, Singapore
Abstract: The development of accepted vaccines that are available on a global scale is a priority to end the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, there have been dramatic shifts in vaccine confidence around the world that threaten the success of approved COVID-19 vaccines as well as the likelihood of achieving herd immunity. This webinar will discuss the current state of COVID-19 vaccine confidence, reasons for hesitancy, and will propose ways forward. The need for COVID-19 vaccines is global, although the need is differentially distributed within populations. High income countries must not monopolize the global supply and every effort must be made to provide vaccines at a price affordable to low- and middle-income countries. Understanding the complexities of establishing a regionally and globally fair vaccine-allocation system are essential.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Pfizer Global Medical Grants.
*Please Note: Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 environment, some of the information presented in this webinar may no longer be up to date.
Speaker: Professor Lisa Ng, Singapore Immunology Network A*STAR, Singapore
Moderator: Professor Robert Heyderman, ISID Executive Committee Member, United Kingdom
The exact duration of immunity induced by natural COVID-19 infection of the newly produced COVID-19 vaccines is still unclear. Natural infection and coronavirus vaccines induce both humoral (antibody-induced) and cellular immune responses and both are important for protection from COVID-19. Multiple studies indicate that neutralizing antibodies decline 6 months after natural infection and it is not yet clear if cellular immunity will provide longer protection. Some studies show the more severe the natural COVID-19 infection, the higher the immune response and the longer the protection. During this session, experts will discuss the implications fo emerging variants for natural re-infection, vaccine escape and antibody treatments. They will explain the concept of herd immunity as a key concept of epidemic control and discuss the current understanding of protective COVID-19 immune responses in special populations such as the elderly, children and the obese. There will be time for questions from the audience.
*This webinar is supported by an Unrestricted Educational Grant from Pfizer Global Medical Grants.
*Please Note: Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 environment, some of the information presented in this webinar may no longer be up to date.
Speaker: Professor Shabir Madhi, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
Moderator: Professor Neelika Malavige, ISID Executive Committee Member, Sri Lanka
Abstract: The emergence and spread of COVID-19 variants raises new questions and scientists must debate whether the variants undercut the effectiveness of first-generation COVID-19 vaccines. The new strains of SARS-CoV-2, first identified in the United Kingdom (B.1.1.7), Brazil (P.1) and South Africa (B.1.351), have developed a substantial number of mutations, especially in the S-protein, that seem to reduce the effects of antibodies crucial to fending off infection. This webinar is a follow up to ISID’s webinar on “COVID-19 Vaccinology Update: Development, Use and Effect on Public Health” released in January 2021. Prof. Malavige and Prof. Madhi will discuss the implications of these mutations on vaccine response and how vaccine manufacturers plan to update their vaccines to better target the emerging variants. Additionally, Prof. Madhi will discuss new results from phase 3 trials and what it will take to achieve herd immunity.
Speaker: Professor Angela Gentile, University of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Moderators: Professor Miguel O'Ryan, ISID Executive Committee Member, Chile & Dr. Tatiana Pinto, ISID Emerging Leader, Brazil
Abstract: El desarrollo de vacunas aceptadas que estén disponibles a escala global es una prioridad para finalizar la pandemia de COVID-19. Recientemente, hubo cambios dramáticos en la confianza de la vacuna alrededor del mundo que amenazan el éxito de las vacunas aprobadas contra COVID-19 como así también la probabilidad de lograr inmunidad de rebaño. Este seminario web incluirá una discusión en vivo y Preguntas & Respuestas sobre el estado actual de la confianza de la vacuna contra COVID-19 en América Latina, las razones de la vacilación, y propondrá caminos a seguir.
*Nota: Debido a la rápida evolución del escenario de la pandemia de COVID-19, es posible que parte de la información presentada en este webinar ya no esté actualizada.
*Observação: Devido à rápida evolução do cenário da pandemia de COVID-19, algumas informações apresentadas neste webinar podem não estar mais atualizadas.
Speakers: Dr. Victor Nizet, University of California San Diego
Moderators: Professor Marc Mendelson & Dr. Connie Walyaro
Abstract: Before the patient has even seen a doctor, their infection is already being treated by multiple antimicrobials - namely the cellular and molecular components of the innate immune system. Conventional screening paradigms in antibiotic discovery are based on MIC/MBC testing in conventional bacteriologic media, and similar tests on patient isolates are used to guide physician management. Antibiotics can synergize with endogenous antimicrobial peptides to effect bacterial killing. These studies will reveal how standard MIC testing can be misleading, overlooking potent antibiotic activities that are recognized only the context of the normal innate immune system. In this new discovery and treatment framework, drugs used in medicine for other indications (e.g. cholesterol-lowering or antiplatelet drugs), or antibiotics otherwise deemed ineffective, can be "repositioned" for treatment of multi-drug resistant pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) or carbapenemase-resistant strains of Gram-negative pathogens including Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
In Collaboration with EcoHealth Alliance, Featuring:
Dr. Peter Daszak, President, EcoHealth Alliance
"Environmental Change and Emerging Infectious Diseases"
Prof. George Gao, Director-General, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention
"One Health and Pandemic Preparedness in China and Beyond"
Dr. Kanta Kumari Rigaud, Lead Enviromental Specialist & Regional Climate Change Coordinayor - Africa Region, World Bank
"Climate Change, Migration, and Infectious Diseases"
Moderated by: Dr. Larry Madoff (USA) & Dr. Salma Ferchichi (Tunisia)
Speakers: Dr. Marjorie Pollack (USA) & Dr. Uzma Aamir (Pakistan)
Moderators: Dr. Therese Umuhoza (Kenya)
On the night of December 30, 2019, ISID’s Program for Monitoring Emerging Diseases (ProMED) Deputy Editor, Dr. Marjorie Pollack posted a request for information to the ProMED network after being contacted by a trusted colleague about a cluster of undiagnosed pneumonia cases in Wuhan, China. Through her previous experience with SARS decades earlier, Marjorie knew this new threat must be taken seriously. Luckily she sounded the alarm, and in doing so was the first to provide a detailed report alerting the international infectious diseases community to what evolved into what we now know as the global COVID-19 pandemic. With her colleague, Dr. Uzma Aamir, this webinar is an up-close and personal discussion with Marjorie, moderated by Dr. Therese Umuhoza.
Speakers: Professor Lulu Bravo (The Philippines) & Professor Francois Venter (South Africa)
Moderators: Professor Alison Holmes (United Kingdom), Professor Paul Tambyah (Singapore), Dr. Afreenish Amir (Pakistan)
Abstract: COVID-19 may have complex short- and long-term effects on global infectious disease priorities. With the world’s attention and resources focused towards COVID-19 prevention and response efforts, we are at risk of major infectious diseases making a comeback. As observed during previous crises, the indirect morbidity and mortality effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic may be as important as the direct effects of the pandemic itself. There are widespread disruptions to HIV, TB and malaria service delivery programs globally with shortages in medical supplies, treatments and diagnostics. Existing programs have been hit by lockdowns, changing funding priorities and re-allocation of staff and resources. It is estimated that the disruption of routine childhood immunization services across the globe puts at least 80 million children under one at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, yellow fever, typhoid, cholera and tetanus. On the other hand, emphasis on infection prevention measures such as hand hygiene and social distancing could reduce the occurrence of community and healthcare associated infectious diseases, providing an opportunity to harness improved practices, behavior changes and attitude modifications relevant to the management of many infections. The full impact of COVID-19 on respiratory diseases and the influenza season remains unknown. Disruptions in disease surveillance and reporting further add to the complexity of understanding the true impact of COVID-19 on communicable diseases.
*Please Note: Due to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 environment, some of the information presented in this webinar may no longer be up to date.
Presentado: Dr. Majorie Pollack, USA & Dr. Uzma Bashir Aamir, Pakistan
Moderado por: Dr. Therese Umuhoza, Kenya
Abstract: En la noche del 30 de diciembre de 2019, la Editora Adjunta del Programa de Monitoreo de Enfermedades Emergentes (ProMED) de ISID, la Dra. Marjorie Pollack publicó una solicitud de información a la red ProMED después de ser contactada por un colega de confianza sobre un grupo de casos de neumonía no diagnosticados en Wuhan, China. A través de su experiencia previa con SARS décadas antes, Marjorie sabía que esta nueva amenaza debía tomarse en serio. Afortunadamente sonó la alarma, y al hacerlo fue la primera en proporcionar un informe detallado alertando a la comunidad internacional de enfermedades infecciosas sobre lo que evolucionó en lo que ahora conocemos como la pandemia global de COVID-19. Con su colega, la Dra. Uzma Aamir, este seminario web es una discusión cercana y personal con Marjorie, moderada por la Dra. Therese Umuhoza.