Manipal: The Manipal Centre for Infectious Diseases (MAC ID) organised a symposium on brain infections at Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, on August 1, bringing together medical experts, students and clinicians to discuss diagnosis, treatment and emerging challenges.
Experts discuss brain infection diagnosis
The symposium was organised in collaboration with the Tropical Infectious Diseases Subcommittee of the Clinical Infectious Diseases Society (CIDS), the Department of Infectious Diseases at KMC Manipal and the ICMR CLIMB-INDIA Study Group.
Conducted in hybrid mode, the event enabled delegates to participate both in person and online. It was aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals relating to good health and well-being, quality education, climate action and partnerships.
Dr Kavitha Saravu, professor and unit head, Department of Infectious Diseases, KMC, MAHE, and coordinator, MAC ID, welcomed the delegates. Prof Ajaz Nabi Koul, Chairperson, CIDS Tropical Infectious Diseases Subcommittee, delivered the inaugural address.
Scientific sessions focus on emerging challenges
The scientific programme featured three expert lectures. Dr Kavitha Saravu spoke on approaches to meningoencephalitis in India, while Dr Kavitha Shettigar discussed molecular diagnostics for early detection of pathogens causing meningoencephalitis.
Dr Angel Miraclin of Christian Medical College, Vellore, addressed lymphocytic meningitis, including tuberculosis and other causes.
An interactive panel discussion on interesting cases of brain infections followed the lectures. The panellists included Dr Angel Miraclin, Dr Arvind N Prabhu, Dr Muralidhar Varma, Dr Prithvishree Ravindra and Dr Sharath P S.
Climate change adds to health concerns
During the discussion, experts highlighted the close relationship between several brain infections and regional climate conditions.
Dr Kavitha Saravu said changing climate and rainfall patterns were influencing the spread of several infections, underlining the importance of early diagnosis, stronger laboratory support and collaboration between medical departments.
Over 100 delegates participate
The symposium received a good response, with more than 50 delegates attending onsite and over 50 joining online. Participants included MBBS and postgraduate students, faculty members and practising clinicians from different specialties.
The event provided a platform for cross-departmental learning, knowledge sharing and collaboration in the field of brain infections. Adheena Joemon was the master of ceremonies, while Gowthami A delivered the vote of thanks.