14th International Bordetella Symposium

SUMMARY Bordetella species are significant agents of morbidity and mortality worldwide, manifesting the life-threatening disease pertussis in humans and severe respiratory infections in animals. Despite the availability of pertussis vaccines, in the past 15-years, the World Health Organization has estimated the global impact of pertussis to be

16 to 24 million cases per year, with 160,000 to 195,000 deaths per year in children. Recent reductions in COVID- 19-related restrictions have correlated with increased pertussis incidence. Indeed, in the US, weekly reported cases of pertussis in 2023 are double those reported in 2022. The first International Bordetella Symposium, held

in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1962, was an opportune moment for world leaders to discuss outcomes of the introduction of a whole cell pertussis vaccine and the emergence of an “extracted” acellular vaccine. The 14th International Bordetella Symposium will be held at the Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of

Sciences, Czech Republic, on June 24-28, 2024. This conference is well-timed to foster dynamic scientific exchange between scientists, physicians, public health officials and industry representatives and advance the field by addressing current challenges imposed by suboptimal vaccination approaches, increasing pertussis

incidence and the continued economic burden of Bordetella spp. on agriculture. The location offers an affordable conference center close to accommodation in a city that is readily accessible to international travelers. Meeting halls have high-quality technical equipment, supporting the attendance of virtual conferees and onsite skilled

technical assistance. In addition, onsite exhibition, catering, and meeting spaces along with guided tours and conference dinners will facilitate discussions in a casual atmosphere beyond the program schedule. The objective of the 14th International Bordetella Symposium is to i) provide high-quality scientific programming and

an opportunity for the global exchange of knowledge and skills; ii) facilitate the career development of early career researchers in a safe environment; and iii) ensure diverse representation at all levels, from conference organizers to attendees, and showcase diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the Bordetella field. The conference

will include keynote speakers intermingled with short talks, panel discussions and poster presentations. Members of the Scientific Organizing Committee and Diversity Ambassadors will select short talk presenters based on the quality and originality of their research and speaker background as a nationally (US)

underrepresented group or group underrepresented in the Bordetella community. Advertisements on society websites, social media and mailings will emphasize the availability of travel awards for attendees from underrepresented groups and first-generation students. Upon registration, those requiring childcare will receive

information on services and access to financial support from the International Bordetella Society. We anticipate approximately 200 in-person attendees and 100 virtual attendees, with >50% US representation. There is no equivalent conference providing an international platform for Bordetella discussion.