Emerging viral diseases have posed a significant global threat to public health in recent times and there is a great need to build international capacity to better response and counteract against future emerging viral disease events. In this context, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences launched the International Symposium on Emerging Viral Diseases (ISEVD) in 2004 and it has been held every other year in Wuhan. It is our great honor and pleasure to welcome you to the 7^th ISEVD, which will be held from October 19-21 2016, to share latest findings, engage in stimulating discussions and establish collaborations with leading fellow scientists from around the world on emerging viral diseases.