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On
behalf of the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID)
it is an honor and privilege to invite you to attend the 10th International
Congress on Infectious Diseases, which will be held in Singapore
March 11-14, 2002.
The past decade has seen a revolution in our ability to diagnose and to understand diseases caused by infections. The
sequencing of the human genome and the genomes of many important pathogens has opened up exciting new possibilities
for the development of pathogen-specific treatments. Advances in immunology and molecular biology have led to the
development of more rapid diagnostic tests and the hope for a wider array of safe, effective vaccines. Our scientific
arsenal for combating infectious diseases has never been greater.
Despite the tremendous scientific advances we continue to make, infectious
diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
Old challenges such as malaria, tuberculosis, diarrheal diseases,
and respiratory tract infections remain unchecked throughout much
of the world. Recently discovered infectious agents such as Helicobacter,
HIV, and hepatitis C are spreading or being recognized around the
globe. Diseases of unknown etiology are being recognized as having
infectious origins. Urbanization, global warming, and the globalization
of rapid travel and the food industry are contributing to the rapid
dissemination of infectious diseases around the world. The misuse
of antibiotics has produced a crisis of drug resistance.
Thus there remains an urgent need for the ICID, a meeting that brings together physicians, scientists, public health
officials, and others interested in infectious diseases from over 100 different countries to discuss new approaches
for the understanding and control of infectious diseases. One of the goals of the ISID is to promote outstanding
scientists within the region where the Congress is being held.
The Congress is a wonderful opportunity for individuals to share their knowledge and experience with colleagues from
around the world. By learning from each other, we will be better equipped to meet the challenges that lie ahead for
all nations.
Our plenary speakers will include
Nicholas White discussing multidrug-resistant malaria, Charles Weissman
discussing human prion diseases, Martin Blaser talking about Helicobacter
pylori, Ruth Bishop on rotavirus pathogenesis and vaccines, and
Francis Waldvogel on new technologies and development in infectious
diseases. Each day will include two plenary lectures, parallel symposia,
and poster sessions.
A number of exciting symposia are under development. More details
and topics can be found in the scientific program.
The popular "Meet-the-Expert" sessions will provide an opportunity
for informal exchange of ideas between Congress participants and an
expert on a timely topic. Delegates will also have daily access to
the commercial exhibition.
Singapore is an exciting venue for the 10th ICID. It is a vibrant, sophisticated city-state located at the crossroads
of Asia. Singapore's history and points of interest reflect its multicultural and colonial heritage. Its modern
attractions include excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment.
We hope you will able to join your colleagues in Singapore to participate in the 10th ICID. By working together we
will be able to find solutions to these great plagues that threaten the health and well-being of people everywhere.
Jean-Paul Butzler, MD, PhD
President
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