The team from the Emerging Virus Group participated in the Joint International Tropical Medicine Meeting (JITMM) 2025, held from 2–4 December in Bangkok, Thailand. The annual conference, organized by the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, with co-organizers including the Department of Disease Control, Mahidol Oxford Research Unit, and the Tropical Medicine and Public Health Network, brought together leading experts to discuss innovations and challenges in global health under the theme “Building Bridges for Sustainable Health in a Dividing World.”
As part of the scientific program, Yora Permata Dewi from EHI delivered an Oral Presentation in Topic #5: Viral Infections, Immunity and Vaccines, titled: “West Nile virus antibodies detected in human blood samples from Indonesia.” A key highlight of the study was the detection of WNV-reactive IgM in non-febrile individuals, suggesting possible silent or undetected circulation of West Nile virus in Indonesia. These findings reinforce the importance of strengthening regional arbovirus surveillance and diagnostic capacity.
Alongside the scientific presentation, Dr. Khin Saw Myint (Scientific Advisor) and Frilasita A. Yudhaputri (CEO of EHI) attended the meeting to broaden the organization’s strategic goals. Throughout the conference, they explored potential funding opportunities, strengthened ongoing collaborations, and established new connections with regional and international partners. The insights and connections gained from JITMM 2025 will contribute to ongoing efforts to advance infectious disease research, enhance surveillance initiatives, and foster meaningful scientific collaboration across the region.
