APHL 2026 Annual: Public Health Lab Trends in Baltimore

Key Takeaways

• APHL 2026 Annual Conference will be held May 4-7, 2026, in Baltimore, MD.
• The conference focuses on the public health laboratory community, sharing trends and best practices.
• Sessions will cover emerging infectious diseases, environmental health, and emergency preparedness.
• Preconference workshops are available on topics like courier logistics and viral hepatitis testing.

The APHL 2026 Annual Conference will take place May 4–7, 2026, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, MD. This 75th annual event is designed for the public health laboratory community to share issues, trends, and best practices in laboratory science and public health.

The APHL Annual Conference serves as a critical forum for public health professionals to connect, learn, and collaborate. With a wide range of sessions and workshops, the conference addresses the most pressing issues facing public health laboratories today. This year's event promises to deliver valuable insights and practical solutions for attendees.

Conference Overview

The conference will feature over 50 sessions, more than 250 scientific posters, and 40+ topic-focused sessions. Topics include emerging infectious diseases, environmental health, emergency preparedness, quality systems, informatics, food safety, newborn screening, global health, and workforce development. P.A.C.E.® and CPH continuing education credits are offered.

Preconference Workshops

Several preconference workshops will be held on Monday, May 4, from 8:00–11:00 am EDT. These workshops require a $149 fee each, but offer P.A.C.E.®/CPH credits. Workshops include:

• From Point A to Point B: Mastering Courier Logistics
• From A to E: Viral Hepatitis Testing and Elimination
• Next Generation Sequencing in the Adolescent Years (Course #588-505-26)
• Artificial Intelligence in Public Health Laboratories—From Fundamentals to Future Frontiers (based on 2025 APHL AI survey)

Logistics and Registration

The conference will be held at the Baltimore Convention Center. Registration is required, and costs vary. Hotel blocks are available at the Hyatt Regency Inner Harbor ($250/night + tax, valid until April 17, 2026, or until the block is filled; call 410.528.1234) and the Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards ($229/night + tax, valid until April 13, 2026, or until the block is filled; call 800.228.9290).

What to Watch Next

As the conference approaches, look for updates on specific session details and any late-breaking announcements. Attendees should plan their schedules to maximize their learning and networking opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When and where is the APHL 2026 Annual Conference?

  The conference will be held May 4-7, 2026, at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, MD.

• What topics will be covered at the conference?

  Topics include emerging infectious diseases, environmental health, emergency preparedness, quality systems, informatics, food safety, newborn screening, global health, and workforce development.

• Are there preconference workshops available?

  Yes, preconference workshops will be held on Monday, May 4, covering topics like courier logistics, viral hepatitis testing, and next-generation sequencing.

• How do I register for the conference?

  Registration is required, and costs vary. Visit the APHL website for registration details.

• Where can I book a hotel room for the conference?

  Hotel blocks are available at the Hyatt Regency Inner Harbor and the Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards. Book before the cutoff dates to secure the group rate.

References

• APHL 2026 Annual Conference Details
• Public Health Laboratory Education
• Certified in Public Health Credential
• Working in a Public Health Laboratory
• APHL Presenter Resource Center
• APHL Event Calendar
• NASOMH: APHL Annual Conference
• APHL Global Health Consultants Preconference Workshop
• APHL AI in Public Health Labs Workshop