Articles tagged with Airborne Transmissible Viruses
Experts are calling on the World Health Organization (WHO) to adopt a more precautionary approach in responding to emerging respiratory viruses. The recent hantavirus outbreak, which has resulted in three deaths and several cases, highlights the need for improved ventilation, respirator use, and portable HEPA filtration.
A PolyU research team discovered that low concentrations of bacterial toxins in urban air can trigger nearly 20% of inflammatory responses, while drug-resistant fungi may spread through everyday breathing or skin contact. The study highlights the need to identify and control these highly toxic trace components to effectively reduce hea...
The new platform developed by UVA Health scientists can produce vaccines much faster, cheaper, and more easily than traditional approaches. The platform's proof-of-concept demonstrates its ability to produce highly immunogenic vaccines that can be manufactured at extremely low cost.
A Northwestern University study found that airplane and hospital air mostly contain harmless microbes from human skin, with some potentially pathogenic species in extremely low abundance. The study used worn face masks as a passive tool to monitor indoor air, revealing the invisible world of microbes floating in our shared air.
A study published in Nature found that wild birds, particularly ducks, geese, and swans, are driving the current US bird flu outbreak. The viruses were introduced to North America via migratory birds and have become better adapted to infect wild birds since 2020.
Researchers argue that AI can strengthen pandemic preparedness by detecting emerging diseases earlier. By combining data from humans, animals, and the environment, AI can reveal patterns and provide insights into potential pathogens.
Scientists have developed a monoclonal antibody to combat life-threatening inflammatory diseases like sepsis and ARDS. The antibody shows promise in blocking the immune system's hyperactive response and restoring healthy function without unwanted side effects.
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that commercially available UV-C light appliances reduced rates of viral respiratory infections by more than 12% in aged care facilities. The technology is easily installed and cost-effective, making it a transformative solution for protecting residents from emerging pathogens.
The new device, nicknamed ABLE, uses a natural process to condense airborne biomarkers into water droplets, allowing for accurate detection at low concentrations. This technology has immediate applications in hospitals and neonatal units, offering a less invasive alternative to blood draws.
A collaborative research effort has provided new insights into the likelihood of mpox spreading by airborne respiratory particles, comparing it to SARS-CoV-2 and smallpox. The study suggests that future viral evolution could alter this dynamic, underscoring the need for continued surveillance.
Researchers developed a prototype sensor that detects H5N1 viruses in air samples, detecting the virus at levels below an infectious dose. The sensor produced results within 5 minutes and showed over 90% accuracy compared to traditional methods, offering promise for noninvasive air monitoring.
Researchers discovered immune cells that can recognise influenza (flu) viruses even as they mutate, providing a potential solution to the annual updates of flu vaccines. The study found that certain T cells, which play a critical role in fighting infections, can detect multiple flu strains, even those that have evolved over a century.
EV25, a bispecific small molecule developed by Eradivir, acts faster than the current standard of care, eliminating detectable virus within 24 hours. It also recruits naturally occurring antibodies to fight the virus, reducing viral loads and protecting against lung damage.
Researchers at Stowers Institute for Medical Research have identified the dengue virus genome's use of less efficient codons in its host's machinery to replicate and spread. This discovery has implications for developing novel antiviral treatments and vaccines, as well as understanding the relationship between viruses and their hosts.
Researchers found that e-liquids containing propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin enhance COVID-19 infection, while those with benzoic acid prevent it. Vapers are advised to quit or switch to e-liquids with acidic pH for better protection.
Researchers successfully isolated infectious SARS-CoV-2 particles from hospital air samples collected over a year ago, demonstrating the presence of viable virus particles in aerosols. This breakthrough provides new insights into airborne transmission and informs the development of preventive strategies.
A study found that acidification of aerosols post-exhalation significantly impacts viral load. Influenza A viruses are inactivated within minutes, while SARS-CoV-2 requires days at typical indoor pH levels.
A new study by USC researchers demonstrates that high-efficiency air filtration systems can significantly improve indoor air quality. Operating such systems with portable HEPA air purifiers can maximize the removal of tiny airborne particles, reducing COVID-19 transmission risk by up to tenfold.
A team of scientists at PNNL created a new kind of micelle that detects SARS-CoV-2 in the air by bursting open upon contact with the virus, sending an immediate electronic signal. The detector has advantages over current technologies, requiring lower viral particle levels and producing fewer errors.
Researchers found that 80% of infections at superspreading events came from just 4% of infected individuals, known as index cases, who carried high viral loads. The study also identified the occupancy and ventilation in social contact settings as key factors driving variability in superspreader events.
Researchers developed new antimicrobial technology for air filters that can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses in seconds. The treatment was tested on trains and found to be effective in killing SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses, including E. coli and C. albicans.
Researchers examined Kappa and Delta variant structures using cryo-EM, finding Delta's spike protein binds stronger with human ACE2 receptor. This explains the rapid global dominance of the Delta variant. The study provides insight into COVID-19 variants' evolution.
A multidisciplinary team of Lehigh University researchers will conduct experiments on thermophoresis in complex fluids for bioseparations at the International Space Station. The team hopes to understand how temperature gradients affect particles and improve virus separation techniques with potential societal impact.
Researchers investigated aerosol production from singing and playing wind instruments to develop recommendations for minimizing COVID transmission. They found that placing a surgical mask reduced plume velocities and lengths, decreasing aerosol concentrations.