ISID 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

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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

Speakers:

Alfonso Rodriguez-Morales, Colombia
             • Epidemiological Impact in Latin America
Nicola Petrosillo, Italy
             • The Emerging European Threat
Kenneth Linthicum, United States
             • 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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

Speakers:

•  Wanwisa Dejnirattisai, Thailand
             • Advances in Understanding Dengue Immunology & Pathogenesis
Nguyen Lam Vuong, Viet Nam
             • Biomarker Update (Diagnostics and Pathogenesis)
Damien Ming, United Kingdom
             • Novel Diagnostics and Innovations

Chair: Sophie Yacoub, Viet Nam
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.

Watch Here

Speakers:

Gonzalo Bearman, United States
Paul Tambyah, Singapore
Mohammed Yahaya, Nigeria

Moderator: Terry L. Schraeder, M.D., United States

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

Watch Here

Speakers:

Jesus Rodriguez-Manzano, United Kingdom
               • 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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

Speaker: Professor 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.

Watch Here

Podcasts

Speaker:

Dr. Aslam Khan, United States

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.

Listen Here

Speaker:

Dr. Aslam Khan, United States

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.

Listen Here

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.

Listen Here

Speakers:

Professor Dimie Ogoina, Nigeria
Dr. David Hamer, United States

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

Listen Here

Speaker: Professor 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

Listen Here

Speaker: Dr. Bassem Zayed, Jordan

Chaired by:

 Dr. Enrique Castro-Sanchez, United Kingdom
Dr. Angel Desai, United States

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.

Listen Here

Speaker: Professor Olga Perovic, South Africa

Chaired by: 

Dr. Afreenish Amir, Pakistan
Associate Professor 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.

Listen Here

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

Watch Here

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

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

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.

Watch Here

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. 

Watch Here

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