Advances in toxicology post-covid-19 disruption: Risk assessment & public health management

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has impacted the world over the past two years and it continues to burden the healthcare system. In order to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, all health sectors, even those that are not typically associated with infectious diseases, are needed. Overcoming a crisis requires the engagement of all parties. As a result, a comprehensive strategy is needed to prevent its spread. During a viral pandemic, toxicologists play an integral role in formulating and implementing such interventions. They can be called upon to help with the Covid-19 response because of their extensive and practical expertise in risk assessment and management, including the safe handling of hazardous materials.

While toxicology may not be traditionally associated with viral pandemics, our field nevertheless has a part to play. Like other disciplines, toxicology has evolved as adapting strategies to ensure that the field continues to be relevant during and after a devastating medical crisis. Toxicological research is constantly growing and diversifying as a result of the overwhelming need to understand better about the hazards of chemical and other toxicant exposure to humans and ecosystems. Therefore, the Malaysian Society of Toxicology (MySOT) has initiated a meeting for various local and international stakeholders to address the role of toxicology in post-Covid-19 pandemic that aligns with the sustainability agenda. The 4th Malaysian Congress of Toxicology (MyCOT 2022) provides a perfect occasion for academics, scientists, and students to widen their insights on how toxicology will sustain following Covid-19 outbreak. It is envisaged that the outcome of this congress will aid Malaysia in its way forward to achieving excellence in toxicology while ensuring its long-term resilience.

It is our pleasure to extend an invitation to all scientists, academicians, young researchers, business representatives, and students from around the world to attend MyCOT 2022, which will be held on November 16 and 17, 2022 at the International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan Campus, Pahang.

MyCOT 2022 aims to attain the following goals:

1. To serve as a platform for interdisciplinary discourse on toxicology in building a sustainable community.
2. To foster the exchange of knowledge about most recent toxicology research findings and advanced techniques in toxicology.
3. To facilitate opportunities for collaborative efforts, networking and exchange of ideas among renowned researchers.
4. To promote high quality research and outstanding achievements in the field of toxicology.