I have been appointed as the President of the Japanese Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases (JSPID).

After completing my pediatric residency in Japan, I obtained a U.S. medical license and received advanced training in pediatric infectious diseases in the United States. Since then, I have been engaged in clinical practice, research, and education as a pediatrician and pediatric infectious disease specialist at universities and children’s hospitals in both the U.S. and Japan. It is a great honor to serve as the representative of this distinguished society, and I am deeply aware of the responsibility that accompanies this role.

The global outbreak of COVID-19, which began at the end of 2019, profoundly changed the lives of people worldwide. It also had a significant impact on the daily lives and development of children, reminding us once again of the importance of being prepared for new infectious diseases. In the years ahead, we will definitely face emerging infectious diseases that have never been seen before, as well as re-emerging infections that were once under control. Considering how we can protect children—and society as a whole—from these threats is one of the most important missions of our society.

1. Establishment of “Young JSPID”
   The driving force of any academic society lies in the energy of its younger members. We will launch a new organization, “Young JSPID,” where young physicians and researchers interested in pediatric infectious diseases can freely gather, exchange ideas, and take an active role in society activities. Comprised of diverse members under 40 years old, this group will help cultivate the next generation of leaders and make our society more open, dynamic, and future-oriented.
2. Development of the “Japan Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Immunology Network”
   Until now, clinical practice and research in pediatric infectious diseases in Japan have largely been conducted at the level of individual institutions or regions. Moving forward, we will build a nationwide network that connects children’s hospitals, university hospitals, and community hospitals across the country, in collaboration with research institutions. Through this network, we will accurately monitor the status of emerging and re-emerging infections, promote necessary research, apply the findings to clinical care, and disseminate our results globally.
3. Further Internationalization of the Society
   Infectious diseases know no borders. Close collaboration and knowledge exchange with experts around the world are essential. In addition to ongoing partnerships with Asian countries, formal collaboration with the European Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases (ESPID) began in 2025. By strengthening our international ties with my own experience and network, we hope to support young physicians in gaining global experience and foster the development of internationally minded professionals. Together with experts worldwide, we will continue to work toward our shared goal of protecting children from infectious diseases.

Together with all members, I will continue striving to protect children from infections and to ensure a healthier, brighter future for them.

Thank you very much for your continued support.