Brisbane is hosting the OPTIONS XII for the Control of Influenza Conference this week at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre (BCEC), bringing together 1,400 influenza researchers and experts from around the world.
Organised by the International Society for Influenza and other Respiratory Virus Diseases (ISIRV), the event focuses on advancing global efforts in flu vaccine development, building on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Australia’s leadership in immunology and influenza research is a central theme, with Brisbane’s institutions like The University of Queensland (UQ) playing a pivotal role.
Key topics include new vaccines for influenza, respiratory virus health in First Nations populations, long COVID, and the threat posed by H5N1 (bird flu).
Kym Guesdon, General Manager of BCEC, expressed the venue’s pride in hosting the global event: “Influenza and respiratory viruses impact millions worldwide. To support and bring together leading experts in this vital area of research, including our own brilliant Australian scientists, is a true honour for the BCEC.”
The conference is supported by Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Australia, and Brisbane Economic Development Agency, cementing Brisbane’s growing reputation as a hub for global scientific collaboration.