Mumbai, August 21: At the ‘SeedsCon-2026: 16th Annual Conference on Clinical Infectious Diseases Society Conference’ held at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, workshops were organized for postgraduate resident doctors and young physicians. These sessions focused on crucial topics such as accurate diagnosis of infectious diseases, modern treatment methods, and the appropriate use of antibiotics.
Dr. Harsh Toshniwal, co-organizing chair of SeedsCon and head of the Department at Shree Swaminarayan Institute of Medical Sciences and Research-Kalol, emphasized the conference’s relevance in today’s context, particularly regarding fevers and various infections. The workshops aimed to guide young doctors on preventing the unnecessary use of antibiotics, promoting their effective use, and prioritizing accurate diagnosis.
He further stated that antibiotics should be avoided in cases of viral fever or seasonal fever to preserve their effectiveness for future generations. Physicians should take a complete patient history, conduct physical examinations, and utilize laboratory reports for accurate diagnosis. The workshops set a conducive environment for the main conference of SeedsCon.
Dr. M. R. Shivaprakash, an expert in mycology, expressed concerns about the rising fungal infections and increasing resistance to antifungal medications in the country. He noted that while awareness about antibacterial resistance is growing, understanding the complexities of fungal infections and their treatment is crucial. A fundamental understanding of which antifungal medications are effective in severe conditions, such as brain infections, is necessary.
Using dermatophyte infections as an example, he explained that a decade ago, these infections could be treated with a simple ointment. However, they have become stubborn and can spread throughout the body and even to the scalp after prolonged treatment. This infection is no longer limited to rural or impoverished populations; it is now also seen in urban areas among those with high hygiene standards.
He urged young doctors to achieve accurate diagnoses through proper methods and to understand the toxic effects and pharmacokinetics of antifungal drugs. He stressed that antifungal stewardship programs should be distinctly separate from antibacterial stewardship to effectively control fungal resistance.
Dr. Anjali Shetty, a renowned microbiologist from Mumbai, highlighted that this conference would spread awareness about infection control, microbiology, and infectious diseases across the country. The sessions were highly informative, with a large number of physicians in attendance.
Dr. Chintan Jadav, a participant in the workshop, remarked that such workshops provide invaluable guidance to young postgraduate doctors in facing everyday challenges in clinical practice and delivering higher quality patient care.
The workshops included various topics such as:
– ID 360: Mastering the basics of infectious diseases, detailed case history writing, and fundamental examination methods.
– Microbiology 360: Diagnostics, stewardship, and infection control, focusing on laboratory diagnosis and precise use of medications.
– The Zero Defense Challenge: Special guidance on complex treatments for immunocompromised patients, including those with diabetes, kidney failure, or organ transplants.
– AI and Technology in ID Practice: Utilizing artificial intelligence and modern technology in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.
– ID Issues in Surgical Practice: Guidance on preventing infections during and after surgery and the appropriate use of antibiotics.
–
Leave a Comment