A new automated Ebola blood test has been evaluated in a field setting and shown to provide accurate results, potentially facilitating expanded access to testing. The test performed well on both whole blood and cheek swab samples, with high sensitivity and specificity.
Researchers propose an alternative Ebola entry screening policy in the US that incorporates social contact tracing risk levels, potentially reducing costs and improving public health outcomes. The study suggests this approach may justify additional data collection efforts to enhance public health decision-making.
Scientists at Stanford University have revived an abandoned drug that shows promise in fighting two disease-causing viruses, dengue and VEEV. The drug works by boosting the human body's ability to resist viruses rather than directly targeting them.
The Zika virus poses a significant threat to West Africa, particularly in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, due to the recent Ebola outbreak. Rapid testing for Zika is crucial to prevent confusion between Zika and early Ebola symptoms.
Researchers found that the Zika virus directly targets human embryonic cortical neural progenitors, leading to cell death and stunted growth. The discovery provides critical insight into the link between the virus and birth defects like microcephaly.
A novel small-molecule antiviral compound, GS-5734, has been shown to protect rhesus monkeys from Ebola virus infection when administered three days post-infection. This preclinical result demonstrates the compound's ability to block viral replication and reduce disease severity.
The study found that monotherapy with favipiravir is unlikely to be effective in patients with very high viremia, but may offer benefits in those with lower viremia. The trial also highlighted the importance of adapting research protocols for emergency situations and integrated research into care.
A novel Ebola virus-encoded microRNA-like fragment serves as a biomarker for early diagnosis of Ebola virus disease (EVD). This fragment was found to be detectable in the blood of patients before the development of viremia, suggesting its potential to advance the diagnosable window for EVD.
The risk of catching Ebola from a survivor is very low, with most body fluids cleared within weeks apart from semen. Studies found that infected blood is the most infectious, but social contact poses little risk.
A new study from French Polynesia found a link between Zika virus infection and Guillain-Barré syndrome, a severe neurological disorder. The study analyzed 42 patients diagnosed with GBS during the Zika outbreak and found that most had symptoms of Zika virus infection before developing neurological symptoms.
A single monoclonal antibody isolated from a human Ebola survivor has been shown to completely protect monkeys from lethal infection with the virus. The antibody, known as mAb114, was effective even when given five days after exposure, suggesting it could be used as a potential treatment for human cases.
Researchers found that 70% of Ebola survivors reported musculoskeletal pain, while 48% experienced headaches and 14% had vision problems. The study highlights the need for further research into Post-Ebola Syndrome to understand its causes and consequences.
A single monoclonal antibody isolated from an Ebola survivor protected non-human primates even after lethal infection, offering hope for a potential treatment. The findings suggest a novel site of vulnerability on the Ebola virus and may lead to effective therapy.
Researchers discovered two potent Ebola antibodies that eliminate symptoms in just five days after infection. The monoclonal antibodies target different regions of the virus's glycoprotein and work by interfering with its entry into host cells.
A recent study by the American Academy of Neurology has found that most Ebola survivors experienced brain symptoms six months after their initial infection. The study, which followed 82 Ebola survivors from Liberia, revealed common neurological problems such as weakness, headache, memory loss, and depressed mood.
A study of Ebola survivors found high rates of eye, musculoskeletal, and neurological complications. The study also explored the risk of sexual transmission of Ebola, with most survivors reporting regular sexual activity but few using condoms.
Researchers discovered that influenza viruses can hide from the immune system by using a protein that masks the virus, making it harder for the body to detect and fight. This finding has implications for developing treatments against influenza and autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
Two investigational vaccines against Ebola virus disease induced an immune response among 1,000 participants in the Phase 2 PREVAIL I trial. The cAd3-EBOZ and rVSV-ZEBOV vaccines were well-tolerated and elicited measurable and demonstrable antibodies, respectively.
ZMapp, a monoclonal antibody cocktail, was well-tolerated and showed promise in treating Ebola virus disease. The trial's results indicate that patients who received ZMapp appeared to do better than those who received standard-of-care only, but the difference was not statistically significant.
Georgetown infectious disease expert Daniel Lucey discusses the importance of global health leadership in responding to the Zika virus pandemic. He shares his experience working with clinicians and epidemiologists in Brazil and West Africa, highlighting the need for collaborative approaches to address emerging infectious diseases.
A research team has identified a new group of powerful antibodies to fight Ebola virus, isolated from the blood of a survivor of the 2014 Ebola outbreak. The antibodies showed significant protection against the virus in mouse models and could guide the development of a vaccine or therapeutic.
A new policy report in Science issues recommendations for responding to infectious disease epidemics, citing the Ebola crisis as a framework. The report proposes rebuilding local health care infrastructures and improving international response capabilities.
Researchers have isolated a collection of potent antibodies from an Ebola survivor that target the virus's glycoprotein stalk, providing significant post-exposure protection. These antibodies may lead to effective therapies to fight Ebola.
Researchers at Adimab isolated a broad panel of neutralizing anti-Ebola virus antibodies from a survivor of the 2014 outbreak. The study highlights the speed and effectiveness of Adimab's single B cell isolation platform, which was able to identify over 300 monoclonal antibodies within weeks of receiving a blood sample.
Researchers detected Zika virus in the amniotic fluid of two pregnant women whose fetuses had been diagnosed with microcephaly. However, further research is needed to understand the biological mechanism linking Zika virus to microcephaly.
Researchers develop a vaccine vector based on cytomegalovirus expressing Ebola virus glycoprotein, demonstrating protection in rhesus macaque model. The study's findings suggest a unique immunological response, producing high levels of antibodies with minimal T cell responses.
Researchers present an experimental Ebola vaccine with 100% efficacy against the virus in West Africa and propose a novel vaccination strategy using ring vaccination. This innovative approach could be adapted to combat other emerging threats like Zika virus.
University of Leeds researchers will run computer software to identify compounds that could be the basis of antivirals for Ebola. The project focuses on finding effective anti-viral drugs, as vaccines are not yet available to treat infected patients.
Researchers developed a real-time system to track Ebola virus particles' interaction with human cells, revealing crucial host and viral proteins involved in fusion. The study identifies specific cellular proteins required for fusion, offering insights into designing future drugs or vaccines.
A team of Dutch investigators has identified NS4B as a potential target for antiviral drug development against dengue virus. A metabolite of acetaminophen, AM404, inhibits replication of the virus. The researchers found that mutations in the viral NS4B protein render the virus insensitive to AM404.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have captured atomic images of the herpes simplex 1 virus revealing how it inserts itself into another protein to evade detection by immune cells. The study provides a mechanistic explanation for the virus's ability to escape immune system recognition.
Scientists at Helmholtz Zentrum München discover that Cistus incanus extracts prevent human immunodeficiency viruses from infecting cells and block Ebola- and Marburg viral envelope proteins. The study demonstrates broad antiviral activity of Ci extracts against various major human viral pathogens.
Researchers have identified antibodies in the blood of survivors that can kill various types of Ebola, providing a potential single treatment against several strains. The study's findings could lead to the development of treatments for Ebola and other related viruses.
Human monoclonal antibodies isolated from Ebola survivors can neutralize multiple species of the virus, including Bundibugyo, Sudan, and Zaire viruses. These findings suggest a common therapeutic or vaccine strategy could solve all Ebola viruses.
A study by University at Buffalo expert Janet Yang found that holding collective, communitarian beliefs contributes to altruistic behavior, while individualistic values hinder it. Emotions like sadness and empathy play a significant role in promoting altruism.
Researchers have engineered antibodies that can potently neutralize Zaire and Sudan Ebola virus strains, providing high levels of protection for mice exposed to lethal doses. The findings are a significant step toward developing an all-inclusive treatment for Ebola virus that causes human disease.
A quick screening method has been used to identify and test promising anti-Ebola drugs. The method, which allows for the evaluation of candidate drugs and comparison of antiviral effectiveness, has shown potential in reducing the emergence of drug resistance and increasing confidence in experimental results.
A team of healthcare workers developed guidelines for treating Ebola-infected children, recommending an aggressive approach that includes fluid therapy, highly fortified food, and increased bedside care. The protocol aims to improve survival rates among young patients and provide a basis for future outbreaks.
A review analysis suggests that patient location and travel mapping limitations contributed to the Ebola epidemic's spread. Employing community members in mapping and education could have helped contain the outbreak.
Researchers discovered that a human protein called ANP32A helps the virus replicate in human cells. Understanding this mechanism may lead to the development of new antiviral treatments for seasonal flu and pandemics.
The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research is conducting a Phase 2 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of an Ebola vaccine regimen in healthy and HIV-infected study volunteers. The trial includes two vaccine candidates and will assess their safety and immune response in volunteers up to 70 years old.
A recent study by Dr. Anthony Griffiths reveals that the Ebola virus has a high frequency of spontaneous mutation, which could prove useful for developing therapies. Increasing the mutation rate may make the virus non-viable, providing a potential therapeutic tool against the disease.
Researchers found that areas with high poverty levels were more likely associated with high Ebola transmission and spread. In contrast, lower socioeconomic status communities had a higher number of personal contacts, increasing the likelihood of transmission.
Researchers discovered a molecular 'arms race' between Ebola virus and African straw-colored fruit bats that may have started over 25 million years ago. The study sheds light on the biological factors determining which bat species harbor the virus, with potential applications for preventing future outbreaks.
A large study of Ebola survivors found that many reported complications such as vision and hearing problems, as well as joint pain, months after recovery. The study suggests that the virus may persist in certain bodily fluids and highlights the need for follow-up care in West Africa.
Researchers have solved the crystal structures of three human TIM members and found that they efficiently enhance Ebola virus infection. The study provides valuable information on the atomic interactions between phosphoserine and hTIMs.
Researchers have unlocked the structure of a plant virus using groundbreaking microscopy, revealing key to building custom virus-like particles that can carry medicines into the human body. The findings could lead to the development of targeted medicines.
The US has sufficient capacity to treat another Ebola outbreak, but challenges remain in providing necessary resources, staffing, and training. The study highlights issues with waste disposal, staffing, and pediatric care, emphasizing the need for further investigation and investment.
Researchers used genome sequencing to trace Ebola's spread in Liberia, finding that most cases were linked to a single introduction of the virus in September 2014. The study suggests that widespread migration within Liberia contributed to the outbreak's magnitude and longevity.
A comprehensive genomic analysis of Ebola virus sequences from Liberia reveals a single introduction source, followed by local spread and diversification. The study also identified reintroductions as a key factor in the continuation of the outbreak in Guinea.
A new report reveals that increased funding for Ebola research and development comes at the expense of other neglected diseases, which cause more deaths annually than Ebola. Despite this, industry investment in R&D for Ebola, malaria, and HIV/AIDS increases, while funding for TB R&D decreases.
Researchers found that Ebola virus blood levels are strong predictors of fatality, with case fatality ratios increasing with viremia levels. The study used laboratory and clinical data from 699 patients to model the association between viremia and CFR.
A no-fault vaccine injury compensation fund is proposed to address liability concerns and ensure recipients are fairly compensated in rare cases of harm. The World Bank could oversee the program, which would provide rapid deployment of vaccines without hesitation due to liability concerns.
Scientists from TSRI have shown how a previously unknown process promotes infection in dangerous viruses, such as dengue, West Nile, and Ebola. They also point to an experimental antibiotic called duramycin that inhibits infection by these deadly viruses, all of which lack vaccines and treatments.
The International Health Regulations (IHR) face a 'crisis of confidence' following the Ebola epidemic. Georgetown experts recommend reforms to build core capacities, clarify reporting requirements, and strengthen emergency responses.
A panel of global experts recommends 10 major reforms to strengthen the global system for outbreak prevention and response. The report highlights the need for improved governance, research data sharing, and rapid institutional responses to prevent future pandemics.
Researchers found that transmission in the general community is low-risk, with even living with someone infected not posing a significant threat if direct contact is avoided. The study recommends urgent diagnosis, hospitalization, and targeted vaccination strategies for close contacts and healthcare workers to stop the spread of Ebola.
A new Ebola vaccine has been found to be well-tolerated and stimulate strong immune responses in adults in Mali and the US. The study's findings could offer crucial protection for contacts of patients with confirmed Ebola disease, helping to interrupt transmission.
A new study found that gamma interferon, an FDA-approved drug, completely protects mice from death when given either before or up to 24 hours after exposure to Ebola. The treatment targets macrophages and blocks the infection of those initial cell targets, preventing a second round of infection.
A novel statistical model mapped the spread of the 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, providing the most detailed picture to date. The analysis suggests two critical opportunities to control the epidemic and identifies two critical points where intervention could have been more effective.