Table 1 Themes highlighted in the meeting and identified gaps

Avian Influenza Vaccines

• Virus-like particle vaccines demonstrated high immunogenicity and efficacy [7,8,9,10]

• Regular updates to vaccines for antigenic matching to field viruses

• Control of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)

• Current reliance on stamping out H5 and H7 outbreaks

Bat immunology

• Understanding bat antiviral immunity and unique immunological traits [13]

• Mechanisms of bats as viral reservoirs and their potential to prevent outbreaks

Understanding bat-host dynamics

• Detailed molecular pathogenesis and disease reservoir mechanisms

• Impact of dietary changes on antibody repertoire and viral immunity

Porcine Disease Vaccines

• Innovative vaccine strategies for Streptococcus suis [11, 12]

• Research on immunological responses to PRRS, ASF, and swine influenza

Efficacy of porcine vaccines

• Absence of efficacy studies

• Lack on basic research into germinal center disruption and IgG function

Next-Generation Sequencing

• Advances in single-cell sequencing for identifying cell heterogeneity

• Applications in autoimmunity, immuno-oncology, and vaccine development

• Specific training needed for young scientists based on LMIC and improve access to equipment

Veterinary Vaccine Platforms

• Novel vaccine technologies for bacterial infections

• Focus on deployment in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)

• Affording accessible technologies for veterinary use

Research development in Africa

• Limited veterinary professionals and infrastructure hindering growth

• Lack of targeted investments to expand the veterinary industry

• Need for structured support in career development and growth

• Enhanced funding and mentorship opportunities for young scientists