The actual reason I was in DC: an infectious disease conference! And a photoshoot apparently! This is my new professional photo.

I took photos with all the cardboard cutouts and signs, too.

The conference (ID Week) was held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and supposedly had over 10,000 attendees.

I attended lectures and one of the socials featuring the ID Week band (made up of 15 infectious disease professionals!).

Around the convention center – lots of art pieces, cold brew on tap, and bathroom signage with briefcases.

There was also an exhibition hall featuring vendors and professional organizations.

Our favorite booth: Biofire. They had machine demos, a giant bug, and freebie surprise balls with disease figurines.

My ID Week haul! I hosted DC trivia at one of our staff meetings so I could share with my work crew.

Conferences are exhausting, but they are inspiring and get me motivated to do more good things in public health!

PSA Wash your hands well!