Norovirus is, undoubtedly, on the rise. According to the Robert-Koch-Institute (RKI) in Berlin, the number of norovirus outbreaks has increased by 20% between 2009 and 2010, and the disease is now #1 in Germany among reportable diseases.* In the past few years, new variants of norovirus genotype II.4 have emerged. The number of cases in Germany rose more than 50-fold between 2001 and 2010.** The picture is similar in other countries, both in developed and developing ones. It can therefore be argued that norovirus is an emerging pathogen.

Research on norovirus has made tremendous progress over the past few years. We now understand many details of host-range specificity, receptor binding, the immune response of the host, the replication mechanism of the virus, and epidemiology. And yet, there is no cell culture system, no vaccine and no approved drug available. The debate continues whether or not antivirals would be of use for the treatment of the short-lived disease caused by norovirus infections which, however, is a tremendous burden for health care systems around the world. The situation is aggravated by the recent finding that some patients may shed the virus for weeks after their recovery.

All these aspects will be discussed at "noro2012 - Norovirus and Other Caliciviruses on the Rise", which will take place in the historic town of Lübeck, Germany, between March 20 and 22, 2012. In addition to norovirus, the conference will also discuss the latest results for other caliciviruses, including caliciviruses of animals which represent highly valuable model systems.

Eminent scientists and pioneers of the field have agreed to present their data at noro2012 - please see the list of invited speakers.

noro2012 offers a perfect opportunity to combine excellent science with your interest in history and architectural masterpieces. Founded in the early 12th century, Lübeck has been the capital of the Hanse and a European powerhouse for many centuries. This is manifest in many historic buildings dating back to those days in the ancient part of the town, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.

Note that the number of participants of noro2012 is limited to 120 (first-come, first-serve), so do not hesitate and register today!

* Robert Koch-Institut: Infektionsepidemiologisches Jahrbuch für 2010, Berlin, 2011 (RKI Jahrbuch 2010).

** cases confirmed by laboratory diagnostics, Germany. Source: RKI Jahrbuch 2001, p. 96; 2010, p. 164.