This session will explore the dynamics of newly emerging viral diseases, including Ebola, Zika, and SARS-CoV-2. Discussions will focus on the epidemiological factors driving their spread, the role of environmental and socioeconomic conditions, and innovative approaches to surveillance and outbreak control. Leading experts will present case studies on recent outbreaks and the global preparedness strategies being implemented to combat these new viral threats.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to shape global health, with new variants emerging and vaccine effectiveness under constant evaluation. This session will cover the long-term effects of the pandemic on public health systems, vaccine development, and global healthcare challenges. Special attention will be given to understanding the role of new SARS-CoV-2 variants, the evolution of immunity post-vaccination, and strategies to mitigate future pandemics.

Understanding how viruses interact with the host immune system is critical for developing effective treatments and vaccines. This session will focus on the latest research into viral immune evasion mechanisms, including how viruses such as HIV, hepatitis, and influenza manipulate immune responses. Experts will present cutting-edge work on host-pathogen interactions, immune memory, and how these insights are shaping therapeutic interventions.

The majority of human viral infections originate from animals. This session will delve into the ecological and molecular mechanisms that facilitate zoonotic transmission. Key topics will include viral reservoirs, cross-species transmission events, and factors that influence the jump from animals to humans. Presentations will highlight recent discoveries in zoonotic virology and discuss prevention strategies for future pandemics, particularly in the context of wildlife and environmental health.

Developing effective antiviral drugs remains one of the most significant challenges in virology. This session will explore breakthroughs in drug discovery, focusing on new antiviral agents, mechanisms of action, and drug resistance. Discussions will include preclinical and clinical trials, antiviral combination therapies, and the future of antiviral therapeutics in combating emerging and re-emerging viral infections.

This session will examine the latest advances in vaccine development, with an emphasis on new platforms such as mRNA vaccines and viral vector vaccines. Discussions will focus on the scientific, logistical, and ethical challenges of developing and distributing vaccines globally. Presenters will share insights from ongoing COVID-19 vaccine efforts, along with strategies to enhance vaccine access in low- and middle-income countries.

The rapid evolution of viruses presents ongoing challenges for global health. This session will focus on how genomic technologies are being used to track viral mutations and understand evolutionary patterns. Case studies will include influenza, HIV, and coronaviruses, with an emphasis on how these insights inform vaccine development and public health responses. Presenters will also discuss the implications of viral evolution for drug resistance and immune escape.

With the advent of new therapies, the landscape of HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention has dramatically evolved. This session will cover recent advances in antiretroviral therapies, HIV vaccines, and long-acting injectable treatments. Discussion topics will include challenges in eradicating HIV, addressing global disparities in access to care, and new prevention strategies, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and microbicides.

Viral pathogenesis remains a key focus in understanding how viruses cause disease. This session will explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which viruses invade and damage host tissues. Presentations will cover the role of viral proteins, host cell responses, and how these interactions contribute to disease severity. Case studies will include research on hepatitis viruses, influenza, and dengue fever, highlighting potential therapeutic targets.

Vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, and chikungunya continue to pose significant public health challenges. This session will examine the biology of viral vectors like mosquitoes and ticks, the environmental factors driving their spread, and strategies for vector control. Presentations will cover the use of genetically modified mosquitoes, innovative vector control programs, and the impact of climate change on vector distribution and viral transmission.