New technologies boost fight against infectious diseases worldwide

Today, the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) is kicking off the 65th edition of its colloquium with the theme "Breaking Boundaries: Innovations in Infectious Disease Research."

For two days, scientists, policymakers, health workers and innovators will come together around one central question: how can breakthrough technologies accelerate infectious disease research to strengthen global health?

“Infectious diseases worldwide continue to challenge the resilience of our healthcare systems and societies,” says Dr Özge Tunçalp, Executive Director of ITM. “These two days show how new ideas and technologies are reshaping healthcare globally — from AI-driven discoveries to diagnostics closer to the community. At ITM, together with our partners, we are at the forefront of developing solutions that work in different settings and strengthen resilient, inclusive and forward-looking healthcare systems worldwide."

Innovations in the spotlight

One of the highlights of the Colloquium is the Health Technology Showcase, where researchers present their most promising innovations. The session illustrates how technology can have a tangible impact in the fight against infectious diseases.

ITM highlights three of its own innovations. Collect2Know is a patented blood collection device that enables people to draw their own blood reliably and affordably - a breakthrough for diagnostics and disease surveillance in low-resource settings. ITM researchers also present the prototype of a universal blood culture system designed for use in resource-constrained healthcare settings. Finally, ITM demonstrates the use of the Lung Flute ECO, a simple, self-powered breathing aid that helps detect tuberculosis faster.

Together with these ITM-led innovations, several other international projects are showcased, including AI-driven tuberculosis screening in Nigeria, a self-test for cervical cancer in Kenya and mobile decision support for health workers in refugee camps.

Two technological innovations that could change the diagnostic landscape are also highlighted: an imaging system that visually identifies pathogens in resource-constrained settings, and a study of air sampling for tuberculosis detection in South African health centres.

Bridge between science, society and policy

The ITM Colloquium, supported by the Directorate-General for Development and Humanitarian Aid (DGD), has been a leading forum for dialogue among participants from the Global North and South since 1959. Every year, it attracts hundreds of participants committed to equitable and sustainable health care worldwide.