Emerging and re-emerging viruses remain a persistent threat, causing widespread illness and death, from localized outbreaks to global pandemics. Our struggles with recent pandemics and outbreaks of viruses such as SARS, avian influenza, MERS, Ebola, and more recently Monkeypox, highlight critical gaps in our understanding and emphasize the urgent need to rethink our preparedness strategies for future viral threats. This meeting aims to address gaps in knowledge regarding emerging and re-emerging viral diseases. Specifically, one session will focus on understanding the mechanisms of virus-host interactions, including how viruses evade host immune responses and cause severe disease and explore countermeasures to these. Additionally, discussions will cover gaps in knowledge related to the pathogenesis of zoonotic influenza and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), as well as the development of effective vaccines against these viruses. The meeting will also explore gaps in our understanding of surveillance methodologies, predictive modelling approaches, and pandemic preparedness strategies. The goals of this conference are: 1. Address critical gaps in understanding virus-host interactions to inform the development of effective countermeasures against emerging and re-emerging viral diseases. 2. Advance knowledge of the pathogenesis of zoonotic viruses and accelerate progress in vaccine development for these diseases. 3. Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing to enhance surveillance methodologies, predictive modelling approaches, and pandemic preparedness strategies. 4. Identify and prioritize important research questions and critical barriers in the field of virology, immunology, epidemiology, and public health. 5. Provide networking opportunities for researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals to strengthen global efforts in preventing, detecting, and responding to viral threats. The anticipated outcomes of this meeting include the generation of new scientific knowledge regarding virus-host interactions, pathogenesis of zoonotic diseases, and innovative approaches to vaccine development. Attendees will gain insights into cutting-edge methods and technical capabilities for surveillance, predictive modelling, and pandemic preparedness. Collaboration among experts from diverse disciplines will foster the exchange of ideas and facilitate the development of multidisciplinary solutions to address viral threats. Additionally, attendees will benefit from training and educational opportunities, enhancing their skills and expertise in the field. As a result of this meeting, the field of virology, immunology, epidemiology, and public health will be better equipped to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging and re-emerging viral diseases, ultimately leading to improved global health outcomes.