Guest Blog by: Esha Sheth, CAMO-Net UK
As a research assistant at the University of Liverpool, my role primarily involves assisting with protocol development, obtaining ethics approvals for non-CTIMP (Clinical Trial of Investigational Medicinal Product) research studies and public engagement. With a Master’s in Medical Microbiology under my belt and plans to pursue a PhD, attending the International Congress on Infectious Diseases (ICID) in Cape Town was an invaluable experience. It offered me the chance to connect with global experts in microbiology, immerse myself in groundbreaking discussions, and broaden my perspective on pressing global health challenges.
The bonus? It all happened in one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever visited. From the moment I landed and caught my first glimpse of Table Mountain towering over Cape Town, I knew this trip would be unforgettable.
I attended ICID as part of the Centres for Antimicrobial Optimisation Network (CAMO-Net) team. Before the event officially began, I helped the communications manager Chris Deputy set up our exhibitor stand in the bustling break/poster hall. This gave me an insider’s look at how such a large-scale event operates behind the scenes, which was a valuable learning experience in itself.
There was a total of 6 plenary lectures, and the most memorable one for me was presented by Professor Anna Levin from University of Sao Paolo. She gave us some very startling updates on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including the detection of antibiotics in drinking water., underscoring the growing global threat of AMR.
Another memorable plenary session for me was on rights, equity and ending AIDS presented by Professor Adeeba Kamarulzaman from Monash University. Having grown up in a low-middle-income country, I found this discussion particularly impactful. It reshaped my understanding of global health, emphasising that equity in healthcare (not equality) is key. Equity focuses resources where they are needed most, such as in regions heavily affected by diseases like AIDS and malaria.
One of the most engaging sessions I participated in during my trip was the CAMO-Net workshop at Monkey Valley. We were presented with a simulated crisis: an outbreak of a deadly drug-resistant bacterial infection in an informal settlement of over 1 million, within a larger city suffering from severe drought and low vaccination coverage.
Each group represented a different stakeholder i.e. government, NGOs (my group), healthcare workers, and the public. We were tasked with developing actionable strategies. The discussions were intense and insightful, touching on:
The consequences of the outbreak for different populations.
Populations most at risk.
Sociocultural considerations for policy making.
Key actions to prioritize.
After initial group discussions, we came together for a lively debate, each group defending their perspectives. The interactive format not only fostered collaboration but also shed light on the complexities of managing infectious disease outbreaks in resource-constrained settings.
The above workshop was just the beginning of a series of insightful discussions which delved into the human and social dimensions of antimicrobial resistance.
We explored how different countries approach public health challenges, and it was fascinating to see both the unique contexts and shared struggles across regions. Professor Esmita Charani and her team’s intersectional research further deepened my understanding of how social and cultural factors influence AMR.
The discussions were messy -just as Professor Sally Sheard described- but this messiness highlighted the importance of context in designing effective interventions. It was a powerful reminder that tackling AMR requires not just scientific innovation but also an appreciation of the complex social systems in which these challenges exist.
Writing this just weeks after the congress, I am still processing the wealth of knowledge I gained. From the cutting-edge research shared by global experts to the collaborative spirit of the workshops, ICID was an enriching experience that will undoubtedly shape my journey as a researcher.
Beyond the academic insights, attending ICID reinforced the importance of multidisciplinary approaches and global collaboration in addressing infectious diseases. It also reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a PhD and contributing to this vital field.
Cape Town, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, was the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable experience. ICID wasn’t just a conference for me—it was a milestone in my career and a source of inspiration for the work ahead.
Attending ICID and participating in the CAMO-Net workshop wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of Jacky Crowley, Ellon Twinomuhwezi, and CAMO-Net who provided me with the travel grant.
