Wolrdleish 5

The uniqueness of the World Leishmaniasis (WL) Congress is that it unites under one roof scientists/professionals, such as entomologists, epidemiologists, immunologists, cellular/molecular biologists, medical doctors, pathologists, health/industrial workers, policy makers and many other leishmaniacs who share a common interest in the most globally important and diversified group of vector born protozoan parasites – the Leishmania.

For the first time the congress will be held in the Americas. Brazil has the honour of being its host. Both cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis are endemic in many parts of the country where they continue to pose serious health problems in spite of tremendous efforts, that have been undertaken by Brazilian public health authorities.

Against this background, the organizing committee is confident that the meeting will not only present work of the state-of the-art in different disciplinary areas but also provide a forum for young and old leishmaniacs to compare notes. Presentations will undoubtedly inform participants the latest development in all disciplinary areas and serve as launching pads for new ideas. Above all, we will optimize the opportunity of ample personnel interactions to stimulate exciting lines of research and for research collaboration. We are certain that WL5 will foster these ends.

The meeting will take place in the Enotel, located in one of Brazil´s most famous beach resorts, Porto de Galinhas where the tranquility of warm and clear water, together with good food offers the perfect atmosphere for making new friends and reuniting old acquaintances.

The organizers look forward to welcoming you to WL5 in May 2013. Sejam bem vindos!

Sinval P. Brandão Filho, Carlos Henrique N. Costa, Claude Pirmez, Jeffrey J. Shaw,
Organizing Committee