Paediatric virology as a candidate of paediatric subspecialisation: An interview with Assistant Professor of Molecular Microbiology-Virology Angeliki Melidou

Mammas,Ioannis N.; Spandidos,Demetrios A.

doi:10.3892/etm.2018.6545

Paediatric virology as a candidate of paediatric subspecialisation: An interview with Assistant Professor of Molecular Microbiology-Virology Angeliki Melidou

Authors:
- Ioannis N. Mammas
- Demetrios A. Spandidos
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Affiliations: Department of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion 71003, Greece
Published online on: July 31, 2018 https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2018.6545
Pages: 2795-2798
Copyright: © Mammas et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution License.

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Abstract

According to Professor Angeliki Melidou, Assistant Professor of Molecular Microbiology‑Virology at the School of Medicine of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece, recent advances in modern virology have important implications in the successful clinical management of neonatal and paediatric viral infections. On the other hand, preventive measures for infectious diseases and their complications, including vaccinations, proper regular examinations and early diagnosis, are equally crucial. Molecular genetics reveals a new era both in the detection of viral infections and in following up the infection and treatment, as well as identifying genetic predisposition that would affect disease course and outcome. Professor Melidou supports that paediatric virology as a candidate of paediatric subspecialisation would definitely play an important role in preparing specialised medical scientists. These scientists would be properly educated for the management of emerging and re‑emerging viral infections, treatment options and schemes according to children's special needs, available prevention strategies and diagnostic capacities. In the context of the ‘4th Workshop on Paediatric Virology’, Professor Melidou's lecture will focus on the epidemiology of influenza virus types and subtypes in childhood.

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