The Hong Kong Jockey Club Global Health Institute (HKJCGHI) convened a dynamic and forward-looking Sharing Session at the XVII International Nidovirus Symposium (Nido 2026), bringing together leading scientists, global health experts, and partners to advance dialogue and action on pandemic preparedness.

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Held at The University of Hong Kong, the session highlighted HKJCGHI’s mission to build “a world better prepared for managing outbreaks and pandemics” through science, innovation, and international collaboration between The University of Hong Kong (HKU), the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), and the University of Cambridge (Cambridge).

 

The programme opened with an introduction by Dr Frank Konings, Program Director (IVI), who outlined HKJCGHI’s distinctive tripartite model and its role in advancing global health. He emphasised the Institute’s focus on translating cutting-edge research into practical, scalable solutions with meaningful global impact.

 

Professor Ravi Gupta, Co-Director of HKJCGHI (Cambridge), further expanded on this through a scientific presentation on SARS-CoV-2 intrahost evolution. His research underscored how viral adaptation within individuals can drive immune escape and the emergence of new variants—reinforcing the need for continuous surveillance, longitudinal studies, and adaptive vaccine strategies.

 

The session concluded with an engaging panel discussion moderated by Professor Leo Poon, Co-Director of HKJCGHI (HKU), focusing on sustainability, talent development, and translating innovation from lab to field, particularly in resource-limited settings. Panelists also explored preparedness gaps for future “Pathogen X” scenarios and the importance of coordinated global responses. 

 

HKJCGHI’s end-to-end approach to pandemic preparedness—spanning early detection, research, vaccine development, and equitable access—was a central theme throughout the session.

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What makes HKJCGHI unique:

• Advancing preparedness across regions

• Turning research into real-world solutions

• Strengthening global talent and partnerships

• Expanding equitable access to life-saving innovations

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As global health threats continue to evolve, HKJCGHI remains committed to bridging science, policy, and implementation to deliver impactful, equitable solutions worldwide.