Members of CAMO-Net helped to shape the conversations at the 20th International Congress on Infectious Diseases (ICID). The conference was held in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3 to 6 December 2024, bringing together over 2,500 infectious disease experts from more than 100 countries.
Organised by the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID), ICID 2024 explored the most pressing issues in infectious diseases under a One Health framework, with a strong focus on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), epidemic intelligence, and innovative solutions for global health challenges.
As a sponsor of ICID 2024, CAMO-Net played a significant role in shaping the conference’s discussions and outcomes. Our members delivered workshops, chaired sessions, and presented research findings that highlighted our global effort to address AMR and improve infection prevention and management.
Key Contributions
Workshops and presentations
CAMO-Net hosted a workshop on AMR stewardship, led by Associate Professor Esmita Charani from CAMO-Net South Africa, which provided practical insights for infectious disease professionals. Members also contributed to high-profile plenary and scientific sessions. For instance, Professor Alison Holmes chaired a plenary on AMR updates, while Professor Anna Levin from CAMO-Net Brazil delivered key insights into regional approaches to AMR.
Another highlight was a session on equity in AMR, chaired by Associate Professor Charani, which included contributions from Dr Sipho Dlamini (CAMO-Net South Africa) and Dr Vrinda Nampoothiri (CAMO-Net India). This session addressed the systemic inequities in how AMR impacts different regions and populations, emphasising the importance of equitable solutions.
Ubuntu Community Village
Dr Hope Mackline from CAMO-Net Uganda presented at the Ubuntu Community Village, a vibrant and inclusive space designed to bridge scientific discussions and community action. She shared insights from CAMO-Net Uganda’s outreach programme at Nakawa Market, where the team used interactive performances to educate vendors and shoppers on antimicrobial resistance. Partnering with the Infectious Diseases Institute Drama Group, this initiative highlighted the dangers of antibiotic misuse and emphasised the importance of responsible antibiotic use through engaging music, dance, and drama. Dr Mackline’s presentation highlighted the value of community-centred approaches to addressing AMR and demonstrated how grassroots efforts can drive impactful public health outcomes.
Scientific and poster sessions
CAMO-Net researchers were well-represented across the programme, showcasing their work in areas such as HIV, tuberculosis, and hard-to-treat infections. In oral presentations, members from Uganda, India, and the UK shared their latest findings on antimicrobial stewardship and diagnostic innovations.
The poster sessions featured over 20 CAMO-Net researchers, highlighting a diverse range of studies. These included contributions from India, Uganda, Brazil, South Africa, and the UK, covering topics from molecular diagnostics to behavioural approaches in AMR management. These sessions provided a platform for early-career researchers to share their work and engage with the broader infectious disease community.
Networking and collaboration
Beyond the formal sessions, CAMO-Net’s presence at the conference fostered collaboration and dialogue. Our exhibition stand served as a hub for connecting with partners and engaging with attendees, while informal gatherings strengthened relationships within the global infectious disease community.
CAMO-Net lead and former President of ISID Professor Alison Holmes said, “CAMO-Net’s presence at ICID 2024 was a testament to our collective commitment to addressing antimicrobial resistance on a global scale. The conference provided an opportunity to share our research, engage in critical conversations, and strengthen partnerships that will drive innovative solutions in antimicrobial optimisation. It is through collaboration and shared expertise that we will make real progress in tackling this pressing issue, and our participation at ICID highlights CAMO-Net’s leadership in advancing the approach to infectious diseases.”
Following the conference, CAMO-Net members participated in an in-person meet-up at Monkey Valley Resort. These sessions provided an opportunity to reflect on the conference’s outcomes, discuss future initiatives, and strengthen bonds across the network’s global teams.
ICID 2024 underscored the importance of global collaboration in addressing infectious diseases and AMR. CAMO-Net’s active participation and sponsorship of the event highlighted its commitment to driving innovation, equity, and impact in antimicrobial optimisation. The conference not only showcased the network’s contributions but also reinforced its role as a leader in addressing AMR around the world.
