Infectious Diseases
Articles tagged with Infectious Diseases
LAMECS 2026 set to bring the next generation of microbiologists to Manchester
Immune system overreaction linked to deadly flu in pregnancy
Mpox study reveals hidden infections may fuel spread
Flawed but correctable research hindered progress in infection-triggered chronic conditions, including Lyme disease and Long COVID
The liver’s immune cells might be the key to curing hepatitis B
Flu signals in wastewater offer an early warning for community outbreaks
Europe advances genomic surveillance of CCRE with landmark multi-country study
New health security operations center will monitor infectious disease risks during this summer’s World Cup gatherings
Testing cefiderocol and levofloxacin against hemorrhagic pneumonia
A study found that cefiderocol and levofloxacin improved survival rates and reduced bacterial burdens in mice with severe hemorrhagic pneumonia. However, instances of hemorrhage differed between the two treatments. The results suggest that levofloxacin may be more effective against this infection.
Scientists discover ‘hidden switch’ in immune cells that helps the body kill deadly fungus
Researchers found a protein called RAB5c that helps white blood cells kill Aspergillus fumigatus, a common airborne fungus. Without this protein, immune cells are disarmed despite attacking at full force. The discovery could lead to new treatments for patients with weakened immune systems.
A precision nanoparticle strategy to combat multidrug-resistant pneumonia
Researchers develop hemoglobin-based nanoparticles to deliver tigecycline directly to Klebsiella pneumoniae infection sites, improving survival rates and reducing bacterial burden. The novel strategy overcomes dose-limiting toxicity and enhances pharmacokinetics of the antibiotic.
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia researchers find diagnostic delays are common for US pediatric patients with malaria
Seasonal COVID-19 vaccination in 2025/26 reduced risk of illness by half in Canada
LJI scientists take crucial step in developing world's first measles treatment
Tuberculosis risk: promising approaches for screening and prediction
Study identifies post-extubation pneumonia as a distinct condition after surgery and key risk factors
OpenBind’s first data and model release marks a milestone for AI enabled drug discovery
The UK-led OpenBind initiative has released its first publicly available dataset and predictive AI model, accelerating the discovery of new medicines using artificial intelligence. The release showcases high-quality, standardized experimental data and a trained predictive model, enabling researchers worldwide to drive the next generati...
Dairy farms in California may transmit H5N1 virus through multiple sources
Researchers detected airborne virus, wastewater contamination, and asymptomatic cows on infected dairy farms, suggesting multiple modes of transmission. This finding highlights the need for mitigation strategies to reduce viral spread in herds and humans.
Singapore researchers advance phage therapy in fight against antimicrobial resistance
Researchers identified how Mycobacterium abscessus evades treatment and proposed a strategy to overcome resistance, offering a pathway towards more effective treatments. A combination therapy targeting both smooth and rough variants proved more effective than single-phage treatment.
Portable TB test matches lab accuracy in just minutes
A new portable device can deliver accurate test results for tuberculosis (TB) in less than half an hour, matching lab accuracy. The MiniDock MTB uses similar technology to COVID-19 tests and detects DNA of mycobacterium tuberculosis, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment
Your nose is a battlefield
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that FluMist can trigger an immune response directly in nasal tissue, training immune cells to recognize and fight influenza virus infection. This response stays in the upper airways and cannot be detected via blood samples.
To spread ideas farther, break connections
A new theoretical framework shows that when interactions shift away from familiar contacts, activity can spread more widely. The study suggests that whether something spreads or stalls may hinge on a simple choice: revisit the same connections or explore new ones.
How pathogens switch on their virulence
A research team at the University of Basel has uncovered how a key protein switches on the machinery that enables Leptospira pathogens to survive and cause disease. By understanding this process, scientists may design drugs that keep the pathogen from becoming virulent, preventing severe cases and reducing mortality.
Phage therapy at a turning point: Valencia 2026 to define the next era of antibacterial medicine
The Targeting Phage Therapy 2026 Congress will bring together experts to address clinical, regulatory, industrial, and hospital infrastructure requirements for phage therapy. The congress aims to move phage therapy from promising science to accessible, validated, and deployable medicine.
New study suggests reduced newborn hepatitis B vaccination coverage may increase infant infections
A recent study found that lower vaccination coverage among infants born to unscreened mothers is associated with a substantial increase in HBV infections. The researchers used simulation modeling to examine the impact of different levels of newborn vaccination coverage and maternal screening on HBV infection rates.
Immune surveillance structures found in skin hair follicles
The study reveals that hair follicles contain specialized sentinel cells that monitor environmental exposure and microbial presence, potentially linking immune detection to sensory signaling. The discovery may have implications for understanding skin infections, immune disorders, and topical therapeutics.
Study of influenza D in human cells, tissue hints at spillover potential
A new study found that influenza D viruses can vigorously replicate in human cells and lung tissue samples, suggesting a strong potential to spill over to humans. Researchers also detected antibodies against Influenza D in people who work with cattle, but no active human infection has been discovered to date.
Washington’s hepatitis C elimination initiative expanded access to testing and treatment while reducing per-patient costs, UW-led study finds
A new study found that Washington's hepatitis C elimination initiative increased testing and treatment access, leading to reduced total care costs. Per-patient costs declined by over 45% as more people received treatment, suggesting a cost-effective approach to screening and treatment of healthy individuals.
Gut microbiota impacts resistance to bacterial pneumonia: Study
Researchers found that antibiotics disrupt gut microbiota, suppressing protective immune system pathways and increasing severity of A. baumannii pneumonia. The study highlights the gut-lung connection as a potential therapeutic target for hospital-acquired lung infections.
A well-organized police patrol in the lymph nodes
A new study from the University of Lausanne identifies a specific subset of fibroblasts that produce Ccl19, an 'attractant signal' for cytotoxic T lymphocytes, bringing them into contact with type 1 dendritic cells. This mechanism is essential for proper immune cell organization and function.
Has life-saving HIV therapy contributed to increased rates of a sexually transmitted disease?
A study found that HAART led to a resurgence of syphilis in the US, with increases concentrated among men. The availability of HIV treatments improved survival but also changed sexual behavior and public health effects.
Millions suffering needlessly with curable hepatitis C, new analysis reveals
A new analysis found that prescriptions for curable hepatitis C drugs have declined sharply in recent years, leaving millions without treatment. The researchers urge swift actions to deliver the drugs to those who need them, including increased screening and system-level changes.
Prepregnancy care and counseling
Primary care-based discussions on reproductive goals, immunizations, and risk-reducing interventions optimize pregnancy outcomes. Prepregnancy counseling reduces maternal morbidity and mortality, while also promoting healthy fetal development.
To thwart pathogens, researchers are giving beneficial microbes what they really want
Researchers have developed a new tool called Microbial Interaction and Niche Determination (MIND) that accurately predicts how microbes compete within complex communities. By analyzing nutrient preferences and energy allocation, MIND helps beneficial organisms outcompete dangerous pathogens. This approach has the potential to accelerat...
WHO-recommended antibiotics cover only 1 in 4 neonatal sepsis infections in low- and middle-income countries
A major multi-country study found that WHO-recommended first-line antibiotics for neonatal sepsis are effective in only one quarter of infections in low- and middle-income countries. High levels of antimicrobial resistance were observed, making it challenging to identify consistently effective empirical antibiotic regimens.
Improving oral care more than halves hospital-acquired pneumonia risk, major trial finds
A landmark trial presented at ESCMID Global 2026 finds that improving oral hygiene for hospital patients reduces the risk of non-ventilator-associated hospital-acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP) by 60%. The study, involving over 8,000 patients, shows a substantial improvement in oral care practices among hospital patients.
Houston Methodist study finds newly developed AI-powered tool helps identify drugs to target antibiotic-resistant bacteria
A newly-developed AI-powered tool, CAMPER, helps identify peptides that target antibiotic-resistant bacteria by breaking down their outer defenses. The study found that CAMPER is effective in developing treatments against MRSA and other difficult-to-treat pathogens.
Ultrasensitive test reveals evidence of previously undetected tuberculosis in Boston Hospital patients
A new ultrasensitive test reveals evidence of previously undetected tuberculosis in Boston Hospital patients, with a striking link to life-threatening sickle cell disease complications. The study found that most TB DNA-positive patients were age 50 or older and tested negative on standard TB infection tests.
UCF expert plays key role in international research to combat dengue fever, zika
Dr. James Earnest's research focuses on how the immune system responds to mosquito-borne viruses, aiming to create better preventative measures for dengue and Zika infections. He is collaborating with institutions in Mexico and Uganda to study immune responses over time, shedding light on effective memory B cells and antibodies.
Lancet Countdown Europe: New report on health and climate change
The Lancet Countdown Europe report presents a total of 43 indicators on the connections between health and climate change in Europe. The report warns that fossil-fuel driven climate change constitutes a growing threat to the health of people in Europe.
Influenza frequently missed in winter deaths, new study finds
A new study found that influenza was detected in 11% of winter deaths, but only 17% had a confirmed diagnosis before death. The study highlights the gap between detection and official mortality records, suggesting influenza may play a larger role in winter mortality than routine surveillance captures.
Bird flu spread could be impacted by where waterfowl like to live
Researchers found that waterfowl in human-heavy landscapes move shorter distances, potentially leading to more intense disease outbreaks. By understanding these patterns, scientists can better predict where bird flu may spread next.
A fast method for measuring how well air disinfection works: See how it glows
Researchers at University of Michigan have developed a fast method to measure the effectiveness of plasma-based air disinfection, which can deactivate up to 99.9% of virus particles. The approach harnesses UV fluorescence to track changes in aerosol infectivity in real-time, providing essential information for public health guidelines.
Characteristics of CD4+T-cell reduction and pulmonary infections in critically ill immunocompromised patients
A retrospective study of 40 immunocompromised ICU patients found associations between low CD4+T-cell counts and specific lung pathogens. Patients with severe CD4 depletion had higher proportions of fungal infections, while moderate immunosuppression was linked to Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Influenza vaccine could protect against heart attack and stroke even among people who get infected
Researchers found that influenza vaccination reduced the risk of heart attack and stroke by half for those who got infected, even if they didn't get vaccinated beforehand. The study's findings suggest prioritizing influenza vaccination among high-risk populations could have significant public health impact.
Influence of antibiotic use on mental health during pregnancy
A study published in BMC Public Health found an association between antibiotic use and maternal mental health during pregnancy. Researchers analyzed data from over 94,000 pregnant women and discovered a stepwise pattern of psychological distress linked to increasing antibiotic exposure. The findings suggest that avoiding unnecessary an...
Study in Chinese Medical Journal shows modified phoenix sepsis score improves mortality prediction in children
Researchers evaluated the performance of the Phoenix Sepsis Score for predicting in-hospital mortality among pediatric ICU patients in China. They found that a modified version, PSS+, showed substantially improved discrimination without sacrificing clinical usability.
GLP-1 receptor agonists and noncardiometabolic outcomes
A meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonist studies found potential safety signals for gastrointestinal side effects, while some evidence suggested a link to reduced respiratory disease risk. Further research is needed to confirm the latter association.
Sudeshni Naidoo named recipient of the 2026 IADR Distinguished Scientist John Greenspan Global Oral Health Research Award
Sudeshni Naidoo, a renowned researcher and specialist in dental public health, has been awarded the IADR Distinguished Scientist John Greenspan Global Oral Health Research Award. Her work focuses on infectious diseases, bioethics, nutrition, and noncommunicable diseases, among other areas.
Postacute sequelae following omicron COVID-19 in patients with cancer
Among highly boosted patients with cancer, overall postacute sequelae risk was not elevated compared to noninfected patients; hospitalized COVID-19 patients remained at increased risk despite therapeutics. Vaccination and boosting remain important in mitigating long COVID among immunocompromised patients
Researchers identify the keys to preventing hospitalizations during nursing home flu outbreaks
Researchers identified the key to preventing hospitalizations during nursing home flu outbreaks: administering antiviral chemoprophylaxis within two days of an outbreak to at least 70% of residents. This approach reduces hospitalization rates by 21%, according to a study led by Brown University.
Study illuminates benefits of red blood cell exchange in severe babesiosis
A multicenter study found that red blood cell exchange transfusion significantly improves clinical outcomes for patients hospitalized with severe babesiosis, a potentially life-threatening tick-borne infection. The procedure was associated with substantially lower risk of in-hospital death or readmission.
Rapid urine test could select UTI antibiotics within hours
A novel method testing directly from urine can tell doctors which antibiotic will work in an average of 5.85 hours, reducing the risk of resistance developing and potentially lethal sepsis. The test agrees with reference methods in 96.95% of cases for seven first-line antibiotics.
University of York scientists solve 40-year-old biological mystery behind Sleeping Sickness
Researchers at the University of York have discovered a protein that allows the African trypanosome parasite to evade detection by destroying specific parts of its genetic instructions. This breakthrough provides new vulnerabilities for future treatments and could revolutionize our understanding of infection.
A natural molecule present in the human body protects against the flu, Fisabio study reveals
A study reveals dermcidin, a human body natural molecule, exhibits antiviral activity against the influenza virus. Higher baseline levels of dermcidin in individuals who don't develop flu-like symptoms may be associated with lower susceptibility to infection.
Normative messaging bridges the partisan gap in pandemic risk-taking, study shows
Research shows that targeted interventions highlighting personal impact on others can alter behavior among partisans. Both Republican and Democratic voters reduced risk-taking when presented with a simple message asking to choose the safer option for themselves and others.
The Lancet Neurology: Over 250,000 deaths from meningitis globally in 2023; over one third in children under five, suggests most comprehensive global assessment to date
Globally, meningitis resulted in over 259,000 deaths and 2.5 million infections in 2023, according to a comprehensive study. The disease disproportionately affects low-income countries, particularly in Africa, where air pollution, premature birth, and low birthweight are major risk factors for death.
Single-cell study reveals how immune memory cells remember threats
A single-cell study reveals how immune memory cells are molecularly programmed to respond faster when encountering a familiar threat. The study found that memory CD4⁺ T cells have their DNA primed to activate key defense genes within hours, providing a head start in responding to known pathogens.
Malaria-transmitting mosquitoes in South America evolving to evade insecticides
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that Anopheles darlingi mosquitoes are evolving to evade insecticides, threatening malaria control efforts in South America. The study sequenced complete genomes of over 1,000 mosquitoes across six countries and identified resistance-related genes.