The 4th Asia Pacific Rickettsial Conference (APRC4) had successfully took place in the vibrant city of Penang, Malaysia from 29th November until 1st October 2025. This conference, held in conjunction with the 61st Annual Scientific Conference of the Malaysian Society of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine (MSPTM), serves as a significant platform for experts, researchers, and healthcare professionals to explore advancements in the study and management of rickettsial and other tropical diseases.

Rickettsial infections, alongside other tropical diseases, represent a substantial public health burden in the Asia-Pacific region. Rickettsial diseases—including typhus, scrub typhus, and spotted fever—are vector-borne, transmitted through ticks, mites, lice, and fleas. These infections, along with other parasitic and vector-borne diseases, are often challenging to diagnose due to their overlapping clinical presentations, leading to delays in treatment and increased morbidity.

Building on the success of its predecessors, APRC4 continues the tradition of fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among regional and international stakeholders. The inaugural APRC1 was held in Cairns, Australia, in 2017, followed by APRC2 in Chiang Rai, Thailand, in 2019, and APRC3 in Chennai, India, in 2023. These conferences have been pivotal in advancing research, raising awareness, and strengthening partnerships to address the growing challenges posed by rickettsial and tropical diseases.

Conference Objectives

1. To facilitate the exchange of cutting-edge research and clinical insights on rickettsial and other tropical diseases.
2. To strengthen regional and global collaborations in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these infections.
3. To promote the integration of innovative technologies and approaches in the management of rickettsial and tropical diseases.
4. To raise awareness of the public and veterinary health, and ecological impact of these diseases.
5. To encourage interdisciplinary discussions on parasitic, vector-borne, and zoonotic diseases affecting human and animal health.

Join us in Penang for APRC4 as we bridge gaps in knowledge, foster collaborations, and build stronger networks to combat rickettsial and other tropical diseases across the Asia-Pacific region.