Research on viral diseases and the response to them. Covers Ebola and mpox, diagnostics, post-viral fatigue, and outbreak control strategies.
Ranaviruses have been detected in over 170 aquatic species, showing frequent cross-species transmission in aquaculture. The four-barrier framework for viral spillover highlights the need for early warning and prevention strategies to protect the sector.
A University of Cambridge team has developed an AI-guided bird flu vaccine that provides complete protection against globally circulating variants in animal trials, outperforming current stockpiled vaccines that offer only 50% protection. The new vaccine uses a 'plug and play' approach to create safe, highly effective vaccines for a pl...
COVID-19 vaccines not only saved lives but also provided significant economic benefits, with global value ranging from $6.43 trillion to $64.3 trillion. The benefits were not equally distributed, with high-income countries benefiting more than low- and middle-income countries.
A study combining HPV testing with automated image analysis shows efficacy in detecting precancerous lesions and guiding treatment decisions in low-resource settings. The approach identified over 500 cases of severe precancerous lesions, with higher prevalence among women living with HIV.
Scientists found evidence that yeast species have shared genes from an ancient virus, which may have been transferred through the droppings of beetles and other wood-eating insects. The viral genes, known as STORM, have evolved at an unexpectedly high rate and persist in yeast genomes for at least 15 million years.
Researchers traced herpes simplex virus 1 infection progression in human skin organoids, revealing differences in virus spread among skin cell types. They found that dermal fibroblasts and hair follicle cells exhibited intrinsic resistance to the virus, and that immune signaling molecules play a crucial role in controlling infection.
A study led by University of California, Riverside researcher Joy Xiang identified new targets for coronavirus antiviral drugs by mapping RNA-protein interactions. The researchers found that disrupting specific interactions between the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and the nucleocapsid protein significantly reduced viral replication. Th...
A new phase 1 trial shows that preexisting immunity can boost viral counts and worsen symptoms in secondary dengue infections. Researchers found that individuals with high levels of anti-dengue antibodies against the nonstructural protein 1 had more balanced immune responses and lower viral counts.
Human neural stem cells are highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, including Omicron variants, according to new research from the University of California, Riverside. The findings raise concerns about the potential effects of maternal COVID-19 infection on early nervous system development.
Researchers have identified four climatic oscillation indices associated with Ebola outbreak distribution, proposing their use for epidemiological surveillance to detect early warning signals for new outbreaks. The predictive tool can help activate preparedness measures when climate conditions indicate an increased risk, identifying pe...
A team of researchers from Penn State has developed a fluorescent molecular tag that tracks viral RNA and host interactions in real-time, allowing for the study of Zika and chikungunya viruses. The tool, called Mango-II, provides insight into the viral-host cell interaction, a key step to developing effective antiviral strategies.
Researchers found that collective bacterial migration helps them stay ahead of phages, while also enabling phages to infect a fraction of cells near the migrating front edge. This coexistence relies on chemotaxis, or bacteria moving in response to changing chemical levels in the environment.
The Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2026 recognize outstanding achievements in applied microbiology, with three winners announced: Professor Chris Greening for global impact, Professor Marciane Magnani for food safety and security, and Professor James Ebdon for public health innovation.
Researchers developed an mRNA antibody therapy that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 and evade its escape mechanisms. The therapy, which combines structural engineering and mRNA technology, shows promise in protecting against emerging variants, including the XBB.1.5 and JN.1 variants.
A UCLA-led team will investigate how Zika virus damages the developing eye and explore potential treatments with a $2.7 million NIH grant. They will use lab-grown retinal pigment epithelium cells, mini retinas, and newborn mouse models to examine protein interactions and test promising compounds.
A study of 700 people with long Covid found distinct differences in lung and mouth microbiomes, linked to respiratory, cognitive, and digestive problems. The research suggests that changes in the microbiome may contribute to the development of long Covid.
Researchers identified patterns of gene activity associated with severe COVID-19 in children, linked to immune responses and cell regulation. The findings provide new insights into disease severity and suggest potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Researchers developed a system of mathematical equations to examine interactions between interventions and post-infection effects. The team found that even small post-infection costs could shift the optimal vaccine coverage to higher rates, even to elimination levels.
A blood test that compares two molecules in the blood can accurately distinguish between bacterial and viral infections in newborn babies with fever. The test showed a high sensitivity and specificity, and could potentially improve treatment and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University and Weizmann Institute successfully engineered immune cells to recognize and attack cancer and viral targets. The enhanced T cells demonstrated stronger immune responses and greater cancer-killing ability, improving survival in mice.
Researchers have developed IgA monoclonal antibodies that provide immediate immunity to dengue infection and reduce the risk of severe disease in individuals with preexisting immunity. This technology overcomes the challenge of Antibody-Dependent Enhancement, enabling effective prevention and treatment of dengue virus infection.
Two studies on the 2026 Bundibugyo virus outbreak highlight new approaches to rapid diagnostics and vaccine preparedness. Diagnostic tests can be evaluated rapidly during an outbreak, and the 2026 virus may offer some cross-protection with existing Ebola vaccines.
A new study reveals striking biological similarities between five major illnesses, including long Covid and PTSD, suggesting common underlying mechanisms. Chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis may be driven by shared regulatory networks in immune and metabolic systems.
Enterovirus infections in children can lead to severe diseases, and current vaccines only cover certain serotypes. The review highlights the need for further research to expand preventive and therapeutic options. Rapid viral evolution complicates disease diagnosis and treatment.
A mathematical model developed by researchers from Hasanuddin University suggests that combining vaccination, treatment, quarantine, and educational campaigns could curb Mpox transmission. The model showed that a full-control strategy produced the greatest reduction in infections, with a 97.85% decrease in the total number of infected ...
A study by Goethe University and Universitätsmedizin Frankfurt has found that seminal fluid can facilitate infection of skin cells with the monkeypox virus. The researchers discovered that protein fragments in seminal fluid form fibers that promote attachment of the virus to human cells, increasing the risk of transmission through sexu...
A clinical trial funded by NIH found that PAXLOVID does not improve Long COVID symptoms, but its extended duration did not cause serious side effects. The study recruited 959 patients and monitored symptoms over six months.
A new study from the University of Copenhagen and Nordsjællands Hospital found a 75% reduction in hospital admissions among infants aged 0-5 months in Denmark following the rollout of an RSV vaccine for pregnant women. This significant decline suggests that the vaccine is effective in reducing the burden of severe RSV disease.
Researchers have identified a subset of B cells known as atypical memory cells as the primary precursors of autoantibody-producing cells during SARS-CoV-2 infection. These cells adopt a markedly different biological program, leading to increased autoantibody production. The study provides new insight into how viral infections can trigg...
A 2-year multicenter cohort study found that most hospitalized survivors maintained or regained cognitive function after Omicron infection, while older and reinfected patients may face progressive decline. The study identified age, infection history, and disease severity as risk factors for progressive decline.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed a vaccine that uses T cells to fight Zika virus, but one vaccine, with both antibody and T cell protection, showed long-term protection against the virus. This discovery offers a new hope in the fight against Zika and its close viral relatives.
A new study found a 16.8-percent increase in HIV cases among Hispanic populations in antisanctuary counties compared to baseline counties. The researchers attributed this increase to the 2018 announcement of changes to the public charge rule, which penalized immigrants for using public benefit programs.
Researchers have discovered a simple ball-milling process that enhances the antiviral activity of manganese-based oxides, improving their ability to inactivate enveloped viruses like SARS-CoV-2. The findings suggest a promising strategy for designing low-cost, high-performance antiviral materials.
Researchers found that infected tadpoles preferred cooler temperatures and regulated their body temperature to slow viral replication. The study suggests that behavioural cooling may help animals combat viral infections, providing a physiological advantage over the detrimental effects of low temperatures.
The U.S. Disease Tracker tracks cases of measles, meningitis, and pertussis at state/substate levels with detailed visualizations, providing reliable data for public health professionals, policymakers, and researchers.
People with eczema face a higher risk of developing shingles due to an altered skin immune response. Researchers analyzed UK database data and found that eczema severity was directly linked to increased shingles risk.
A noninferiority randomized clinical trial found that an alternative first-line regimen containing doravirine, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate produced less weight gain than a combination of dolutegravir, emtricitabine, and tenofovir alafenamide. The regimen was noninferior for viral suppression at 48 weeks.
Researchers recovered and analyzed ancient viral DNA from a local community in northern Chile, revealing the strongest direct evidence linking European colonization to the introduction of smallpox to the Americas. The study shows that smallpox evolved in a way that allowed it to spread successfully with minimal adaptation.
A portable, airpod-size fluorescence analytical device has been designed to provide timely home molecular testing. The VPodDuo can measure fluorescent signals generated by various detection chemistry formats and detect quantities of genetic material from several pathogens and human cancer markers.
Researchers uncover how a family of tick-borne viruses, known as orthonairoviruses, evade the immune system by manipulating cellular communication pathways. This study highlights a significant pandemic risk posed by these viruses and emphasizes the need for continued surveillance and preparedness.
A new study by researchers at UCL and GOSH found that the infant airway itself ramps up the immune response, causing damage to lungs. The team tested antiviral drugs, finding that RSV604 calmed the overactive immune response, reducing inflammation levels.
A new study suggests that several COVID-19 drugs can be toxic to marine organisms, even at low concentrations. The research found that ivermectin and other pharmaceuticals caused significant mortality in brine shrimp, highlighting an environmental concern.
A team of scientists found that a small subset of T cells called stem T cells are responsible for making new T cells and replenishing them in chronic disease. These rare stem T cells express the protein LEF1, which is key to their persistence. Boosting LEF1-positive cells overcame T cell exhaustion in chronic infection, while removing ...
A study of 193 countries finds that armed conflict leads to more measles cases, even a year after fighting ends. Socioeconomic decline is the strongest connection between conflict and measles, as it erodes health foundations and population vulnerability.
Researchers at Texas A&M University develop a laser technique called TRIP to directly measure quantum forces shaping proteins, enabling accurate prediction of how pharmaceutical drugs interact with them. This breakthrough could lead to the design of medicines tailored to specific diseases, revolutionizing precision medicine.
The new vaccine adjuvant induces a strong mucosal immune response in the GI tract, which is crucial for eradicating polio. The researchers achieved a 20-fold increase in antibodies needed for mucosal immunity compared to the existing injectable polio vaccine.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have discovered that 'cross-reactive' T cells can recognize multiple species of paramyxovirus, including measles and Nipah viruses. This broad protection is essential in combating emerging diseases with unknown viral strains.
Chikungunya virus persists in macrophages, causing long-term joint inflammation and relapsing arthralgia. Researchers use advanced techniques to map gene activity and profile individual cells, finding a 'sanctuary' where the virus replicates.
A 2021 dog daycare outbreak in LA County revealed critical gaps in vaccinations and animal-to-human transmission. Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease, can cause severe illness in dogs and flu-like symptoms in humans.
A Mayo Clinic study analyzed records of 571 adults with ME/CFS and found that family medicine physicians often prescribed common pain-relievers and sleep aids before specialist consultation. The study suggests that these medications may be underutilized for treating core symptoms of ME/CFS, such as fatigue and brain fog.
A new study by the University of Turku found that long COVID patients experience increased brain activity in mood and emotion regions, rather than widespread brain inflammation. The study suggests that treatments targeting stress and emotional regulation may be more effective for patients with prolonged symptoms.
A nationally representative survey of empaneled adults found that most Americans understand how STIs spread, but there are significant gaps in public knowledge about which infections can be prevented through vaccination. The survey also revealed strong awareness of common transmission pathways and some basic facts about STIs.
A linseed oil-derived polyol compound has been patented by FIU researchers, exhibiting potential to inhibit a broad spectrum of viral and bacterial infections. The compound's low cost, biodegradability, and industrial scalability make it an attractive option for global health challenges.
A Kaiser Permanente study of nearly 8,000 men found that asymptomatic mpox infections played a significant role in transmission, contrary to previous assumptions. The study also showed that the mpox vaccine reduced the risk of infection by 50% and severe disease by 78%.
A University of Osaka-led team developed a wastewater-based epidemiology approach to estimate influenza incidence, predicting community outbreaks about one week earlier than publicly available data. The method also enables separate estimation of influenza A and B trends, supporting more detailed monitoring of seasonal outbreaks.
Liver injury occurs in 75-85% of dengue infections, mostly mild. Severe hepatitis and ALF are uncommon but have high mortality. Early recognition is crucial to guide referral to liver specialists and transplant teams.
Scientists at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have characterized human antibodies capable of neutralizing measles virus. The new panel of human antibodies may form the basis for future medical therapies against measles infection, with a study showing a 500-fold lower viral load in a rodent model.
Researchers discovered that HIV-1 can infect resting immune cells by temporarily 'unlocking' the nuclear pore complex, allowing its genetic material to enter the host's DNA. This finding challenges a long-standing dogma and has significant implications for understanding the latent reservoir and developing new treatments.
Researchers used high-frequency ultrasound waves to eliminate viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and H1N1 by causing structural changes that led to inactivation. The technique uses acoustic resonance, which differs from cavitation, a process used for decontamination.
A study by Boston Children's Hospital researchers found that the US missed four out of seven measles elimination status indicators, with most at risk. The latest outbreak has spread continuously for over a year and affected 45 states since January 2025.