The third ISSAD conference took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 16–18 October 2023, continuing the mission to advance the fight against GBS disease. Hosted in a hybrid format, the event combined in-person sessions at the iconic Fairmont Copacabana venue with online streaming, thus maintaining accessibility and broad global participation.

The conference featured a rich scientific program and a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Anna Seale, Chiara Crestani, Dorota Jamrozy, Elita Jauneikaite, Gaurav Kwatra, Hans-Christian Slotved, and Shabir A. Madhi, among others. Presentations ranged from cutting-edge genomic studies and vaccine development to immunological research and public health strategies. Special focus was given to maternal immunization challenges, adaptive immunity, and surveillance perspectives from different regions.

Highlights included discussions on late-onset disease transmission, non-pharmacologic interventions to reduce maternal colonization, and foodborne invasive GBS. The involvement of the Young ISSAD Committee added fresh energy and ensured broader engagement with early-career researchers and new perspectives.

ISSAD 2023 reinforced the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and international collaboration in tackling GBS. The event provided a dynamic platform to exchange knowledge, inspire new research, and strengthen advocacy for maternal and newborn health initiatives worldwide. It also continued to build momentum toward the goal of developing and implementing effective GBS vaccines to prevent disease in mothers and infants globally.