Events

IRIDS Virtual Science Talks

Welcome to the IRIDS Virtual Science Talks

The spirit of IRIDS

IRIDS (International Roche Infectious Diseases Symposium) comprises a series of scientific and educational events taking place since 2009, addressing some of the most significant, up-to-date topics in the field of infectious disease (ID) management and diagnosis. IRIDS is the perfect forum for laboratory experts and clinical specialists from around the world, to exchange insights and expertise in the infectious diseases field.

The IRIDS Virtual Science Talks

In 2022, Roche has initiated a series of webinars with the aim of engaging, informing, and inspiring healthcare professionals worldwide.
Scientists and industry leaders will share their thoughts and experiences within the field of infectious diseases, on a platform built to facilitate and enhance conversations and sometimes also debates.

Three reasons to attend

Stay up to date on the global trends and most significant development on infectious diseases.

Discover more about trends and current innovations around respiratory diseases, viral hepatitis, sexual transmitted diseases, and congenital infection, just to mention a few.

Connect with lab experts, clinicians, industry leaders from other countries.

Attendance to the IRIDS Virtual is free of charge. No CME points will be provided, but it will be possible to get a Certificate of Attendance.

Agenda

Watch the recordings

Diagnostic challenges in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and co-infections, with focus on maternal health concerns.

Prof. Rashida Abbas Ferrand
Professor of International Health
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom

Prof. Jeffrey Klausner
Clinical Professor of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Population and Public Health Sciences University of Southern California, United States

Prof. Laith J. Abu-Raddad
Professor of Population Health Sciences
Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Qatar

12^th of June 2025

7-8 am PT / 10-11 am ET / 4-5 pm CET

Join us for an insightful webinar designed to address the pressing and often complex diagnostic challenges in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with a focus on maternal health. This session will underscore the urgent need for effective strategies in tackling HIV, HSV, and syphilis, infections that significantly impact both mothers and newborns.

The webinar will start with a comprehensive disease overview of HIV, HSV, and syphilis, presented by Prof. Jeffrey Klausner (US). He will discuss the complexities that arise from co-infections and address broader sexual health issues, providing a foundational understanding of the current landscape.

Next, Prof. Laith J. Abu-Raddad (Qatar) will focus on neonatal herpes, exploring its worldwide prevalence and the roles of both HSV-1 and HSV-2. His presentation will shed light on the substantial, yet frequently overlooked, clinical and public health impact of this devastating infection on vulnerable newborns.

Following this, Prof. Rashida Ferrand (UK) will share invaluable insights and expert perspectives on the multifaceted challenges and ongoing controversies related to STI screening during pregnancy.

The webinar will conclude with a dedicated 10-minute Q&A session, offering an open forum for audience questions and a panel discussion with all speakers.

Meet the speakers

Professor Rashida Abbas Ferrand

Professor of International Health
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom

Prof. Ferrand is a world-leading authority on HIV in adolescents - a field that she pioneered showing that perinatally-acquired HIV (mother-to-child transmission) to be a major cause of adolescent morbidity and mortality in Southern Africa. She leads a thriving multidisciplinary interventional research unit in Zimbabwe and was the first to demonstrate long-term survival with HIV even without early diagnosis and treatment, leading her to develop and conduct several landmark randomised trials focused on improving outcomes for this patient group. Her research is increasingly multidisciplinary, with increasing relevance to fundamental questions, such as aging.

Professor Jeffrey Klausner

Clinical Professor of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Population and Public Health Sciences University of Southern California, United States

Prof. Klausner has more than 25 years of HIV and STI prevention and clinical research experience, especially with marginalized populations. His research interests are in applied epidemiology and the prevention and control of infectious diseases of public health importance like HIV, STDs, TB, COVID-19 and cryptococcal infections. Prof. Klausner has a particular interest in the use of technology (information, digital, and laboratory) to facilitate access to prevention and early treatment. He is a frequent advisor to the CDC, NIH and WHO and a popular public speaker.

Professor Laith J. Abu-Raddad

Professor of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation—Education City, Qatar

Prof. Abu-Raddad’s current main research interests include the study of the spread of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS, HSV-1, HSV-2, chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhea; the epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory infections; the assessment of HCV epidemiological patterns; studying diabetes and tuberculosis epidemiology; and the evaluation of the impact of various interventions against infectious diseases, including vaccines, diagnostics, and drug regimens. His research focuses on global and regional epidemiology, with a particular emphasis on the Middle East and North Africa region. Prof. Abu-Raddad has been the lead author of numerous high-impact studies in recent years, covering topics such as STIs, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, HCV, and tuberculosis.

Spotlight on H5N1: Tackling the zoonotic threat and addressing current challenges

Prof. Dr. Helen Chu

Professor of Medicine & Epidemiology, Alex McMillan Professorship in Pandemic Preparedness, University of Washington School of Medicine and Public Health, United States

Dr. Daniel Jarem

Global Medical Affairs Lead
Infectious Disease & Immunity
Roche Molecular Systems, Pleasanton, CA United States

28^th of May 2025

Avian influenza, also known as bird flu, is a zoonotic disease caused by influenza A viruses that primarily spread between birds, but can also infect mammals. Rare cases of human infections have been reported, primarily acquired through direct unprotected contact with infected birds, contaminated environments, and occasionally via intermediary animals, such as cats or cows. While avian influenza viruses do not currently transmit easily from person to person, the ongoing circulation of these viruses in poultry is concerning, as these viruses can result in mild to severe illness and death, and also have the potential to mutate to become more contagious.¹

The H5N1 strain of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is present in wild birds worldwide and has recently been causing outbreaks in domestic birds and dairy cows. Since April 2024, 70 human cases of avian influenza A(H5) virus infection have been reported in the United States. Globally, H5N1 virus infections have been sporadically detected in humans in more than 20 countries. To date, human-to-human transmission of influenza A(H5) virus has not been identified in the United States, and the immediate risk to the general public remains low.^1,2

As the world continues to battle various infectious diseases, the H5N1 avian influenza virus remains a significant concern due to its zoonotic potential and its impact on both animal and human health. In this session, Prof. Dr. Helen Chu will delve into the complexities of H5N1, exploring the ways in which it can transmit from animals to humans, the current epidemiological landscape, and the specific challenges it poses to public health and biosecurity. Afterwards, Dr. Daniel Jarem will shed light on the medical value of diagnostic tests to help solve the situation and the tools we have to monitor its spread.

Join us as we bring together leading experts to share their insights, discuss mitigation strategies, and examine the latest research findings aimed at preventing and controlling this formidable threat.

Meet the speakers

Prof. Dr. Helen Chu

Professor of Medicine & Epidemiology, Alex McMillan Professorship in Pandemic Preparedness, University of Washington School of Medicine and Public Health, United States

Prof. Dr. Helen Chu, who holds the Alex McMillan Professorship in Pandemic Preparedness, is a distinguished Professor of Medicine & Epidemiology at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Public Health. Renowned for her groundbreaking work on respiratory viruses, Dr. Chu has made significant contributions to the understanding and preparedness for pandemics. Her research on Influenza A H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has been pivotal in unraveling the complexities of this highly pathogenic avian influenza strain. By studying its transmission dynamics, clinical outcomes, and potential for human adaptation, Dr. Chu's work has provided crucial insights into mitigating the risks posed by this formidable virus. Her efforts have not only advanced scientific knowledge but have also played a vital role in informing public health strategies and interventions aimed at preventing widespread outbreaks and ensuring global health security.

Dr. Daniel Jarem

Global Medical Affairs Lead
Infectious Disease & Immunity
Roche Molecular Systems, Pleasanton, CA United States

Dr. Daniel Jarem is a Medical Affairs Lead at Roche Diagnostics, renowned for his expertise and contributions in the field of medical diagnostics. With a strong background in molecular biology and biochemistry, Dr. Jarem has been instrumental in advancing innovative diagnostic technologies that enhance early disease detection and patient care. His work at Roche Diagnostics focuses on the development and management of the medical strategy for cutting-edge assays and platforms that deliver high accuracy and reliability, ultimately improving clinical outcomes and fostering personalized medicine.

Unveiling the global threat of Dengue: Insights from non-Endemic and endemic regions

Dr. Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit

Professor at the University of Hamburg and head of the Department of Arbovirology and Entomology, Bernhard Nocht Institute of Tropical Medicine, Hamburg Germany

Dr. Gathsaurie Neelika Malavige

29^th of October 2024

Watch the recording

Dengue, also known as break-bone fever, is a mosquito-borne viral infection prevalent in tropical and subtropical climates.³ The virus is primarily transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Aedes albopictus is common in Europe, while Aedes aegypti is found in Cyprus, around the Black Sea, and Madeira.⁴

Most dengue cases are asymptomatic, but common symptoms include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. Severe cases require hospitalization and can be fatal.³

Dengue incidence has surged globally, with WHO reporting an increase from 505,430 cases in 2000 to 5.2 million in 2019.⁵ In 2023, over 6.5 million cases and more than 7,300 deaths were recorded across 80 countries.³

Factors contributing to the epidemic include the spread of mosquito vectors, climate change, fragile health systems, and political instability. Dengue is now endemic in over 100 countries, with the Americas, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific regions most affected.³ Dengue is spreading to new areas in Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean and South America.

Our two expert speakers will provide an in-depth understanding of the virus, the disease and diagnostic opportunities and challenges. Prof. Dr. Malavige will put her focus on the endemic situation in APAC, specifically Sri Lanka, the challenges and burden of the disease and highlight them on real patient cases. Prof. Dr. Schmidt-Chanasit from the tropical institute in Germany will bring the disease in the light of the global perspective and will also highlight what is happening to prevent further expansion of the virus and its vectors.

Join us for an informative webinar on the Dengue virus to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disease, its local and global burden to patients and clinicians, tools in place to help the spread, and its evolving impact on global health.

Meet the speakers

Prof. Dr. Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit

Professor at the University of Hamburg and head of the Department of Arbovirology and Entomology, Bernhard Nocht Institute of Tropical Medicine, Hamburg Germany

Dr. Schmidt-Chanasit is a professor and the head of the department of Arbovirology and Entomology at the Bernhard Nocht Institute of Tropical Medicine in Hamburg, Germany. Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit is a leading expert in tropical medicine, renowned for his extensive research on arboviruses, including the dengue virus. As a prominent figure at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, he specializes in the epidemiology and virology of these vector-borne diseases, contributing significantly to our understanding of their transmission, prevention, and control. Dr. Schmidt-Chanasit's work has been instrumental in addressing the global challenges posed by arboviruses, advancing both scientific knowledge and public health strategies.

Prof. Dr. Gathsaurie Neelika Malavige

Professor at the department of Microbiology and head of the department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka; until June 2024: Head of the Global Dengue Program.

Dr. Gathsaurie Neelika Malavige is an esteemed immunologist and infectious disease specialist, widely recognized for her expertise in dengue and other tropical diseases. With a distinguished career that includes serving as the Head of the Global Dengue Program, Dr. Malavige has been at the forefront of international efforts to combat the dengue virus. Her work encompasses crucial research into the immunopathogenesis of dengue, leading to significant advancements in understanding and mitigating the impact of this disease. Dr. Malavige's leadership and scientific contributions continue to shape global strategies in the fight against dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

Clinical and diagnostic insights into HEV infection - A major cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide

Prof. Darius Moradpour

Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Medicine of the University of Lausanne, and Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Switzerland

Dr. Johannes Polz

Development Lead for Immunoassays on Infectious Diseases, Roche Diagnostics, Penzberg, Germany

Dr. Korbinian Kienle

Development Lead for Immunoassays on Infectious Diseases, Roche Diagnostics, Penzberg, Germany

24^th of September 2024

Watch the recording

The hepatitis E virus (HEV) was discovered in 1983, and since then it has not garnered as much attention as other viral infections, despite being recognized as one of the most prevalent causes of acute hepatitis globally⁶. Each year, it is estimated that there are 20 million HEV infections worldwide, resulting in approximately 3.3 million symptomatic cases of hepatitis E. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hepatitis E was responsible for around 44,000 deaths in 2015, which accounts for 3.3% of the total mortality attributed to viral hepatitis⁷.
Over the past decade, there has been significant progress in understanding the natural history, epidemiology, and clinical manifestations of HEV infection. This enhanced understanding has been pivotal in addressing the diagnostic challenges associated with the virus. We invite you to delve deeper into the world of hepatitis E, exploring its primary clinical features, the hurdles faced in its diagnosis, and the advancements in diagnostic tools. Notably, the recent introduction of the Elecsys® Anti-HEV IgM⁸ and Anti-HEV IgG⁹ immunoassays marks a significant leap forward in the detection of both acute and past HEV infections. Join us in uncovering these developments and enhancing our collective knowledge about this important yet often overlooked virus.

Meet the speakers

Prof. Darius Moradpour

Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Medicine of the University of Lausanne, and Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology of Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Switzerland

Prof. Moradpour earned his medical doctoral degree from the University of Zürich in 1989, subsequently completing clinical training in Internal Medicine as well as Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University Hospitals in Zürich and Freiburg i. Br., alongside a research fellowship at Harvard Medical School.

In 2004, following his role as staff physician at the University Hospital in Freiburg i. Br. and a visiting professorship at Rockefeller University, he joined the CHUV, initially as Chief of Hepatology and, since 2009, as Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.

He is a distinguished member of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and of the Executive Board of the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences. He is also a scientific advisor to the German Center for Infection Research and an Associate Editor of Hepatology. Prof. Moradpour has authored over 400 original articles, reviews, and book chapters, which have garnered over 20,000 citations, underscoring his profound impact on the field of hepatology and viral hepatitis.

Dr. Johannes Polz

Development Lead for Immunoassays on Infectious Diseases, Roche Diagnostics, Penzberg, Germany

Dr. Polz is a senior scientist working at Roche Diagnostics GmbH for the past 12 years. He has a remarkable track of patents filed, including a method for detection and reduction of interferences in immunoassays, and publications on the field of hepatitis B. After earning a PhD in immunology at the University of Regensburg, he has joined Roche as development lead for several infectious diseases immunoassays. Among several projects, he has successfully developed the Elecsys Anti-HEV IgM immunoassay.

Dr. Korbinian Kienle

Development Lead for Immunoassays on Infectious Diseases, Roche Diagnostics, Penzberg, Germany

Dr. Kienle holds a Bachelor and Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences obtained at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and Cardiff University, Wales in 2013. After obtaining his PhD in Biology at the Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany in 2020, he joined Roche Diagnostics GmbH as Science Trainee Immunoassay in the Research and Development group. Since 2022 he is Development Lead in the R&D Elecsys Assay Development Infectious Diseases team. Among several other projects, he has successfully developed the Elecsys Anti-HEV IgG immunoassay.

MPOX: the burden and uncertainty in the evolution of a long-known pathogen

Dr. Carolin Bier

Global Medical Affairs Manager for Infectious Diseases & Immunity, Roche Diagnostics International AG, Rotkreuz, Switzerland

3^rd of September 2024

Watch the recording

Discovered in monkeys kept for research purposes in 1958, the MPOX virus first made the jump to humans twelve years later, infecting a nine-year-old boy in Congo. Since then, multiple outbreaks have occurred primarily in Africa, with a notable smaller outbreak affecting around 70 individuals in the US in 2003. Between 2018 and 2022, single travel-related cases were reported outside endemic areas¹⁰.

In 2022, the virus garnered significant attention as over 80,000 cases were reported worldwide, marking a pivotal moment in the global understanding of MPOX. The virus has continued to pose a significant public health challenge since then¹¹.

There are two main clades known for the virus, the central African also called Basin clade (clade I) and the west African clade (clade II). Clade I and and its subtypes cause more severe disease and are known to be more transmissible^.12 Last year a novel clade 1b was identified to be causing a lot of cases in Africa and more recently also outside Africa. This clade is also associated with reported deaths in Africa, as well as Vietnam and the Philippines. Therefore, on August 14th, 2024 the WHO Director-General declares MPOX outbreak a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)¹³.

Please join us for an informative webinar on the MPOX virus to gain a comprehensive understanding of the virus, its history, diagnostic opportunities, and its evolving impact on global health.

Meet the speaker

Dr. Carolin Bier

Global Medical Affairs Manager for Infectious Diseases & Immunity, Roche Diagnostics International AG, Rotkreuz, Switzerland

Dr. Bier is a global medical affairs manager working at Roche Diagnostics International AG, Rotkreuz for more than 12 years. She is a trained biochemist with a PhD from the Goethe University Frankfurt a.M., Germany. She started her career at Roche as a Technical Project and Team Lead in PCR assay development in infectious disease. With her broad expertise, she joined the Global medical affairs team for Infectious Diseases and Immunity early in 2022 and supported the MPXV assay on the x800 instruments, the first monkeypox virus tests to receive Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). Furthermore she is part of a team monitoring emerging pathogens to be prepared for the response to urgent needs to be supported by diagnostic solutions.