Infectious and rare diseases remain among the most pressing challenges in global health. As new pathogens emerge and rare conditions demand specialized attention, staying at the forefront of research, treatment strategies, and policy developments is essential. Conferences serve as vital platforms where experts, clinicians, and researchers share breakthroughs, discuss challenges, and build international collaborations. Attending such events can enhance your professional knowledge, expand your network, and provide insights that directly impact patient care and public health outcomes.

In 2026, the global calendar of infectious and rare disease conferences is packed with opportunities for learning and networking. From cutting-edge research in pathogen biology and emerging infectious diseases to advances in rare disease treatments and orphan drugs, these conferences cater to a wide spectrum of professionals. Here’s a comprehensive overview of 12 international conferences to attend in 2026, arranged in ascending order by month.

1) 6th International Conference On Microbiology & Infectious Diseases

January 20–21, 2026

Barcelona, Spain

The 6th International Conference on Microbiology and Infectious Diseases opens the year as a foundational event for researchers and clinicians in infection science. Over two days, participants explore a range of topics including pathogen biology, novel diagnostics, immunological responses, and strategies for infection prevention. The conference features keynote lectures from globally recognized experts, interactive workshops on advanced laboratory techniques, and poster sessions showcasing the latest research findings. 

Healthcare professionals, microbiologists, epidemiologists, and early-career researchers benefit from the opportunity to discuss innovative approaches for tackling both endemic and emerging infectious diseases. The event also fosters international collaboration, helping participants form networks that support multi-center studies and global health initiatives.

2) 7th Annual Meeting On Infectious Diseases, Microbiology & Beneficial Microbes

January 22–23, 2026 

Aix‑en‑Provence, France

Held just days after the Barcelona conference, the 7th Annual Meeting on Infectious Diseases, Microbiology & Beneficial Microbes in Aix‑en‑Provence examines the dual nature of microbes, focusing both on pathogens and beneficial microorganisms. The conference encourages discussions on how the human microbiome influences disease progression and overall health. 

Sessions include updates on bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, as well as novel therapies harnessing beneficial microbes for immunomodulation and gut health. Attendees gain practical insights into experimental techniques, translational research, and therapeutic applications. It is particularly beneficial for microbiologists, clinical researchers, and public health professionals seeking a balanced understanding of microbial impacts on human health.

3) 10th International Conference On Infectious Diseases: Control & Prevention 

April 16–17, 2026 

Aberdeen, UK

The 10th International Conference on Infectious Diseases: Control and Prevention emphasizes strategies for mitigating the spread of infectious diseases. Sessions cover epidemiological surveillance, public health interventions, vaccination strategies, and outbreak management. The conference highlights case studies from both local and global settings, providing participants with practical knowledge applicable to hospital environments, community health initiatives, and national public health policies. This event is particularly valuable for epidemiologists, infection control specialists, and public health professionals who aim to strengthen their understanding of disease containment and prevention mechanisms in real-world scenarios.

4) 13th International Congress On Infectious Diseases 

April 16–17, 2026

London, UK

Simultaneously with the Aberdeen conference, the 13th International Congress on Infectious Diseases in London delves into clinical and translational research, covering bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Participants can attend sessions on emerging pathogens, immunology, diagnostic technologies, and therapeutic advancements. The congress emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together clinicians, laboratory scientists, and academic researchers. 

This conference offers opportunities for interactive workshops, networking events, and collaboration discussions that help attendees translate laboratory discoveries into clinical practice. Its dual focus on research and patient care makes it a cornerstone event for infectious disease professionals seeking to stay current with global scientific developments.

5) 11th Annual Summit On Rare Diseases & Orphan Drugs 

April 16–17, 2026

Tokyo, Japan

The 11th Annual Summit on Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs in Tokyo addresses the complex challenges of diagnosing and treating rare conditions. The summit features presentations on orphan drug development, personalized medicine, regulatory frameworks, and patient advocacy strategies. Researchers, pharmaceutical professionals, and healthcare providers benefit from in-depth discussions on clinical trials, innovative treatment approaches, and access solutions for patients worldwide. Additionally, the summit provides interactive sessions for sharing case studies and collaborating on global research initiatives. It’s an essential event for anyone involved in the development of therapies for rare and orphan diseases.

6) 18th Euro‑Global Conference On Infectious Diseases 

May 14–15, 2026 

London, UK

The 18th Euro‑Global Conference on Infectious Diseases in London provides a platform for discussing infectious disease threats that affect populations worldwide. The agenda includes bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, with a focus on vaccine development, antimicrobial resistance, and emerging pathogens. Keynote lectures and workshops explore innovative strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. 

The conference is ideal for infectious disease specialists, researchers, epidemiologists, and public health policymakers seeking a comprehensive understanding of global infection trends and control measures. Its emphasis on evidence-based solutions ensures participants gain practical knowledge to apply in both research and public health contexts.

7) 13th International Conference on Infectious Diseases, Bacteriology and Antibiotics 

May 18–19, 2026 

Paris, France

The 13th International Conference on Infectious Diseases, Bacteriology and Antibiotics in Paris focuses specifically on bacterial infections and antibiotic research. Sessions highlight antibiotic resistance mechanisms, new drug discoveries, pathogen-host interactions, and clinical management of bacterial infections. Attendees can explore the latest findings in microbiology, laboratory diagnostics, and therapeutic innovations. This conference is particularly relevant for microbiologists, infectious disease clinicians, pharmacologists, and researchers developing novel antibacterial therapies. It provides opportunities for in-depth discussions with global experts in bacterial pathogenesis and antimicrobial stewardship.

8) 6th World Congress on Tuberculosis, Lung Infections, and Respiratory Care 

May 18–19, 2026 

Aix‑en‑Provence, France

Coinciding with the bacteriology conference, the 6th World Congress on Tuberculosis, Lung Infections, and Respiratory Care focuses on respiratory infectious diseases, including tuberculosis and emerging lung pathogens. The congress explores clinical management, diagnostics, treatment advances, and public health strategies for controlling lung infections. Pulmonologists, infectious disease specialists, and researchers benefit from sessions addressing both local and global challenges in respiratory healthcare. The event also encourages cross-disciplinary discussions between clinical practitioners, microbiologists, and public health experts to improve patient outcomes.

9) 15th World Congress on Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs 

May 21–22, 2026 

Prague, Czech Republic

The 15th World Congress on Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs in Prague is designed for specialists in rare disease research and treatment. Attendees engage in discussions on personalized medicine, new therapeutic modalities, clinical trials, and policy frameworks for orphan drug approval. The conference highlights collaborative approaches between academia, industry, and patient advocacy groups, promoting global strategies to improve access and outcomes for rare disease patients. It is an essential event for healthcare professionals, clinical researchers, and policymakers seeking to advance rare disease management.

10) 10th International Conference On Rare Diseases 

June 18–19, 2026 

London, UK

The 10th International Conference on Rare Diseases in London addresses challenges related to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of rare conditions. Sessions explore genetic disorders, patient-centered care, and emerging therapies, with contributions from leading clinicians, geneticists, and pharmaceutical researchers. Attendees also participate in workshops on clinical trial design, patient engagement strategies, and global rare disease initiatives. The conference provides a platform to exchange knowledge, discuss innovative approaches, and network with professionals dedicated to improving care for individuals with rare conditions.

11) 16th European Epidemiology And Public Health Congress 

June 22–23, 2026 

Paris, France

The 16th European Epidemiology and Public Health Congress in Paris emphasizes the population-level impact of infectious diseases. Sessions cover outbreak investigation, disease modeling, prevention strategies, and health policy planning. Epidemiologists, public health researchers, and policymakers benefit from discussions on global health challenges, surveillance methods, and evidence-based interventions. By participating, attendees gain insights into effective strategies for managing both endemic and emerging infectious threats, as well as frameworks for public health preparedness and response.

12) 3rd Edition of Infectious Diseases World Conference 2026 

September 21–23, 2026 

Miami, FL, USA

The 3rd Edition of Infectious Diseases World Conference (IDWC 2026) in Miami closes the calendar year with a global perspective on infection prevention, healthcare resilience, and collaborative approaches to infectious threats. The conference includes workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at improving healthcare systems and fostering interdisciplinary cooperation. Researchers, clinicians, policy makers, and public health leaders will find this event particularly useful for exploring systemic solutions, sharing successful interventions, and learning about novel treatment and prevention strategies across infectious disease domains.

Final Thoughts

Attending conferences on infectious and rare diseases in 2026 provides unmatched opportunities for knowledge acquisition, networking, and professional growth. From cutting-edge research in pathogen biology to innovative therapies for rare diseases, these 12 events cover a broad spectrum of interests and expertise. 

By participating in these conferences, professionals can stay updated on scientific advancements, collaborate with international peers, and contribute to improving global healthcare outcomes. Selecting events that align with your specific research, clinical, or policy interests will ensure a productive and impactful year in the fields of infectious and rare disease research.