The 8th VIIP – Viral Infections in Immunocompromised Patients – International Congress is taking place from 9 to 11 September 2026 in Varese, Italy, bringing together leading experts and professionals involved in the care and management of immunocompromised patients. The scientific programme addresses a wide range of topics related to viral and other infections in immunocompromised patients, including organ and haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, infection prevention and treatment, immunosuppressive therapies, immunology, bacterial and fungal infections, as well as the ethical and communicative aspects of transplantation.
Daniel Gallego, President of the EKPF, is participating in the congress as a speaker, representing the patient perspective in the session dedicated to the ethical and communicative aspects of transplantation. His presentation, titled “Communication as a critical aspect for the quality and safety of organ transplantation: patient’s perspective”, highlights the importance of effective, transparent and patient-centred communication throughout the transplantation journey. By bringing the patient voice into a multidisciplinary scientific forum, Daniel contributes to ensuring that patients’ experiences, needs and expectations are considered alongside clinical and scientific perspectives.
Congresses such as VIIP play an essential role in promoting the exchange of knowledge, encouraging collaboration between different areas of expertise and supporting advances in research and clinical practice. The meaningful involvement of patients and patient representatives is an increasingly important part of this process, helping to ensure that research, healthcare strategies and clinical decisions respond to the realities and priorities of those directly affected. Incorporating the patient perspective into scientific and professional discussions ultimately contributes to more person-centred, safe and effective healthcare, and strengthens the connection between research, clinical practice and the needs of patients.
The EKPF would like to thank the VIIP Congress organization for the invitation and for creating a space where scientific, clinical and patient perspectives can come together. We greatly value the opportunity to contribute to this important exchange of knowledge and to continue strengthening collaboration between healthcare professionals, researchers and patient organisations.
