From 24 to 26 March 2026, the Van Puyvelde Group within the Laboratory of Medical Microbiology participated in the 14th International Conference on Typhoid and Other Invasive Salmonelloses in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This global gathering brought together researchers, vaccine developers, and policymakers united by a shared goal: combating typhoid fever and other invasive Salmonella infections.

Set against the dynamic backdrop of Cambodia’s capital, the conference provided a vibrant platform for exchanging ideas, presenting cutting-edge research, and strengthening international collaborations. The LMM team proudly contributed to this important dialogue through both an oral presentation and a poster.

A unified language for tracking Salmonella

During the session “Evolution in Action: Genomics and Resistance”, Ine Hoeben presented her work on developing an updated population structure and nomenclature for invasive Salmonella Typhimurium. By bringing together publicly available genomic data, this research aims to create a standardized framework for naming and classifying strains.

Why does this matter? A shared “language” enables researchers and public health institutions worldwide to more effectively track the evolution and spread of this pathogen. In an era where antimicrobial resistance is a growing threat, such harmonization is essential for coordinated global surveillance and response.

Understanding resistance in vulnerable communities

Purity Kasiano presented a poster focusing on multidrug-resistant typhoid in Mukuru, an informal urban settlement in Nairobi, Kenya. Her study explored antimicrobial resistance patterns and the phylogenetic context of Salmonella Typhi strains isolated from both patients and carriers.

The findings highlight how densely populated informal settlements can act as regional amplifiers of resistant infections. Importantly, this research provides actionable insights for the targeted deployment of typhoid conjugate vaccines (TCVs), supporting more effective and equitable public health interventions.

Strengthening global collaboration

The conference underscored the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in tackling infectious diseases. By engaging with experts from across the globe, our team gained valuable perspectives that will inform ongoing research and future partnerships.