The Bunyaviricetes class of segmented, negative-sense RNA viruses includes many highly pathogenic viruses, with no licensed antivirals or vaccines available for any of the human infecting bunyaviruses, underscoring the need for more research on this group of viruses. Additionally, while bunyaviruses have been traditionally considered to affect low- and middle-income countries, climate change is expanding the habitat range of arthropod vectors into new regions, including Europe. 

The 2024 meeting brought together ~150 researchers from across the globe, including several speakers from the Global South, and was widely regarded as a success. As the only meeting dedicated specifically to bunyaviruses, it provided a unique opportunity for exchange and collaboration. On this basis, the organisers and the participants collectively agreed to maintain a biennial schedule.

The next bunyavirus meeting will take place in July 2026 in Bilbao, Spain, and we have confirmed Amy Hartman (Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, USA) as a keynote speaker. Amy has a strong track-record in bunyavirus vaccine development and her expertise spans other sessions (e.g. Virus Entry). Given the lack of currently available licensed bunyavirus vaccines, we anticipate that having such keynote will ignite discussions around the topic, across disciplines, and encourage attendees to contribute with and integrate their expertise.

The main aim of the conference is to provide a space for knowledge exchange and networking opportunities for bunyavirologists. Knowledge exchange will be ensured by providing multiple presentation formats, including 15-min talks and 5-min flash presentations from submitted abstracts, as well as 2 poster sessions. Additionally, an important component of the meeting will be the focus on building community and productive networks in the field. Following feedback from 2024, the meeting has been extended by an additional day to allow greater opportunities for interaction and collaboration building.