The upcoming ALIVE 2 conference, hosted by LeishVet, promises to be a compelling event for professionals in the field of veterinary medicine, particularly those focused on leishmaniasis and related diseases. The conference boasts an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, each bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience. Here, we spotlight some must-attend sessions and provide insights into the expertise of the distinguished speakers.
Jorge Alvar: Control of Visceral Leishmaniasis - Successes, Risks, and Expectations
Background: Dr. Jorge Alvar, a graduate from the University of Madrid with extensive experience in tropical diseases, has been at the forefront of leishmaniasis research and control efforts. His work at the WHO and the Drugs for Neglected Disease initiative in Geneva has significantly contributed to strategic planning and implementation of control programs in leishmaniasis endemic regions. His session promises to provide invaluable insights into the global efforts to control visceral leishmaniasis.
Marta Leiva: Top Three Ophthalmic Challenges in the Management of Animal Leishmaniosis
Background: Associate Professor Marta Leiva, a renowned expert from the University Autonomous of Barcelona, brings her extensive experience in veterinary ophthalmology to the conference. Her expertise, particularly in areas like cornea, foal ophthalmology, and the ocular signs of infectious diseases, will offer attendees a unique perspective on managing ophthalmic complications in animal leishmaniosis.
Alessandra Fondati: Expect the Unexpected - Lessons from Leishmaniosis
Background: Dr. Alessandra Fondati, a graduate of the University of Pisa and a European veterinary dermatology specialist, brings her comprehensive experience in veterinary dermatology to her session. Her work, which includes extensive research on the pathogenesis of feline eosinophilic granuloma complex, will provide valuable insights into the unexpected aspects of leishmaniosis.
Christopher Fernandez-Prada: Extracellular Vesicles and Canine Leishmaniosis - Friends or Foes?
Background: Assistant Professor at the University of Montreal, Dr. Fernandez-Prada’s session will delve into the complex role of extracellular vesicles in canine leishmaniosis. His notable research in parasitology and infectious diseases has led to significant advancements in understanding these diseases and will offer a cutting-edge perspective to attendees.
Carla Maia: Phlebotomine Sand Flies - Small Vectors Causing Major Problems
Background: Dr. Carla Maia’s extensive research in leishmania and phlebotomine sand flies makes her session a must-attend for those interested in epidemiology and vector-pathogen-host interactions. As an Assistant Researcher at the Medical Parasitology Unit of IHMT-NOVA, her insights into the challenges posed by these tiny vectors will be particularly enlightening.
Manolis Saridomichelakis: When Should Clinicians Suspect Feline Leishmaniosis?
Background: Dr. Manolis Saridomichelakis, a professor at the University of Thessaly, Greece, and an expert in veterinary dermatology, will share his extensive knowledge on feline leishmaniosis. His research focus on leishmaniosis and allergic skin diseases in dogs and cats will provide vital information for clinicians dealing with these complex cases.
Christine Petersen: Dogma, Ecology, and Potential Reservoirs for Leishmania donovani in Bihar, India
Background: As the Director of the Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases at the University of Iowa, Dr. Petersen’s research on visceral leishmaniasis and tick-borne diseases positions her session as a highlight for those interested in epidemiology and disease control. Her work in immunopathology and vaccine trials offers a comprehensive view of the challenges in managing leishmaniasis in various settings.
Lluís Ferrer: The Conundrum of Clinical Relapses in Canine Leishmaniosis
Background: Dr. Lluís Ferrer, a seasoned veterinarian and dermatologist from the University of Zaragoza, Spain, will address the complex issue of clinical relapses in canine leishmaniosis. His extensive experience in cutaneous infections and dermatology makes his session particularly relevant for practitioners and researchers alike.
Filipe Dantas-Torres: Other Leishmania Species Infecting Dogs - Zoonotic and Clinical Significance
Background: Dr. Filipe Dantas-Torres, a veterinarian and public health researcher at Instituto Aggeu Magalhães in Brazil, brings a wealth of knowledge in leishmaniasis and other vector-borne diseases. His session will offer critical insights into the zoonotic and clinical significance of various Leishmania species affecting dogs, an essential topic for those in veterinary and public health fields.
Each session at ALIVE 2 is poised to contribute significantly to our understanding of leishmaniasis and related conditions. The conference presents a unique opportunity to learn from leading experts and to engage with the latest research and developments in this vital field.