Welcome to VTEC 2018
Italy was proud to host the 10th International Symposium on VTEC in one of the world's most beautiful cities. This triennial event brought together the global scientific community to share the latest research on Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) and Verocytotoxin-producing E. coli (VTEC) from a one-health perspective.
The symposium was organized by the Italian Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, with Stefano Morabito serving as Chair of the Local Organising Committee.
Scientific Program
The symposium covered a broad range of topics central to STEC/VTEC research:
- STEC Epidemiology & Risk Assessment
- Diagnostics, typing, and ecology of STEC and Stx-phages
- STEC Genomics and the agri-food chain
- Pathogenesis and pathophysiology of STEC HUS
- Treatment of STEC infections
Invited Speakers
Distinguished researchers from leading international institutions shared their expertise:
- Dr Maria Marta Amaral — Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Prof. Eric Cox — Ghent University, Belgium
- Prof. Mark Eppinger — University of Texas, USA
- Prof. Stephen Freedman — Canada
- Prof. David Gally — United Kingdom
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Contact & Organizing Secretariat
Host Organisation
Italian Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians
Organising Secretariat
MV Congressi SPA
Via Marchesi 26 D
43126 Parma, Italy
Ph: +39 0521 290191 ext. 43
Fax: +39 0521 291314
General: vtec2018@vtec2018.org
Registrations: vtec2018registrations@vtec2018.org
Abstracts: vtec2018abstracts@vtec2018.org
The VTEC symposium series has grown into a triennial event that represents the main opportunity for the scientific community to gather and share the latest advances in the field. Researchers from around the world come together to exchange ideas, present findings, and discuss the future direction of investigation in a collaborative and inspiring atmosphere. The congress provides a unique platform where both established experts and emerging scientists can connect and learn from one another.
Health perspectives remain at the core of the symposium, with sessions designed to explore the intersection of fundamental research and practical applications. By bringing together specialists from diverse disciplines, the event fosters a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Attendees gain valuable insights that can directly inform their own work and contribute to broader public health goals.
Networking is a cornerstone of the VTEC experience. The organisers place great emphasis on creating an environment where informal conversations can flourish alongside formal presentations. Coffee breaks, poster sessions, and social events are thoughtfully integrated into the program, giving delegates the chance to reinforce existing liaisons and establish new ones that often grow into lasting consortia and collaborative projects.
Florence provides a truly amazing setting for the congress. As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it offers an unparalleled backdrop of art, history, and culture. Delegates can step away from the scientific sessions and find themselves immersed in Renaissance architecture, world-renowned museums, and charming streets that invite quiet reflection after a day of stimulating discussion.
The local organising committee works diligently to ensure that every aspect of the event runs smoothly. From the selection of the venue to the coordination of invited speakers and the management of abstracts, careful attention is paid to detail. The goal is to create a seamless experience that allows participants to focus entirely on the science and on building meaningful connections with their colleagues.
Previous editions of the symposium have set a high standard, and each new gathering builds on that legacy. The opportunity to host such a distinguished event is met with enthusiasm and a deep sense of responsibility. The organising team draws on past experience while embracing fresh ideas, ensuring that the program remains relevant, engaging, and responsive to the evolving needs of the community.
Abstracts and registration deadlines are announced well in advance, giving prospective attendees ample time to prepare their contributions. The scientific program is shaped by the submissions received, reflecting the current interests and priorities of the field. Early engagement is encouraged, as it helps the committee craft a balanced and stimulating agenda that highlights both invited perspectives and submitted research.
Beyond the lecture halls, the congress offers opportunities to discover the destination through organised tours and cultural activities. Participants can explore the surrounding region, sample excellent food and wine, and experience the warmth of Italian hospitality. These shared moments outside the formal program often become some of the most memorable parts of the event, strengthening bonds that endure long after the symposium concludes.
VTEC 2018