Sampling surfaces for COVID-19 at public health laboratories
A new study published in mSystems demonstrates that a surface sampling method can detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces, improving environmental surveillance in public health labs.
Sars Cov 2
Articles tagged with Sars Cov 2
Qatar Omicron-wave study shows slow decline of natural immunity, rapid decline of vaccine immunity
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that COVID-19 vaccine immunity against new infection appears to wane rapidly, whereas people with a prior-infection were moderately protected from Omicron. Natural immunity provided strong and durable protection against severe illness.
Emory immunologists identify critical immune cell target to treat COVID-19 complications
Researchers have identified lung-infiltrating monocytes as the key immune cells driving COVID-19's inflammatory complications. The study suggests that targeting these cells with remdesivir and baricitinib can enhance antiviral signaling and viral clearance, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Nostril swab best way to test for COVID-19, study finds
A new study published in Microbiology Spectrum found that nasopharyngeal swabs were the most effective method for detecting COVID-19, with detection rates ranging from 92 to 100%. Saliva and anterior nares tests had lower detection rates, particularly in asymptomatic patients.
Novel host cell pathway hijacked during COVID-19 infection uncovered by Bristol researchers
A team of scientists from the University of Bristol has identified a host cell pathway hijacked by SARS-CoV-2, allowing it to penetrate human cells. The study found that removing a protein complex called ESCPE-1 blocks COVID-19 infection by around 50%.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateJun 14, 2022
The coronavirus epidemic of 2020 in Finland began with five virus lineages
Researchers identified 42 independent virus lineages that arrived in Finland in spring 2020, with four causing two-thirds of the entire epidemic. Most infections were not transmitted further, indicating that early travel restrictions and preventive measures can delay widespread transmission.
Few differences in safety profiles of Moderna, Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines
Both Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines have a low risk of adverse events over a 38-week period. The study found rare adverse events after both vaccines, particularly when compared to the health risks driven by SARS-CoV-2 infection.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 13, 2022
Mount Sinai researchers develop a rapid test to measure immunity to COVID-19
Researchers developed a rapid blood assay that measures the magnitude and duration of immunity to SARS-CoV-2, allowing large-scale monitoring of population immunity. The test takes less than 24 hours to perform and is scalable to use broadly in the population.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 13, 2022
Commercial T cell test reveals factors correlated with diminished T cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 in clinical study subjects
A commercial T cell test found that age and time since infection are significant factors related to the magnitude of immune responses to COVID-19. In vaccinated individuals, only increasing age was associated with poor T cell responses, while time from vaccination or type of vaccine had no effect.
New study paves way to better understand and treat those suffering from long COVID
A new study found that patients with long COVID have virus-specific T cell levels over 100 times higher than those who recovered from the disease. The research team's findings suggest hidden viral reservoirs may be causing long-term symptoms, guiding future treatments towards vaccines and antiviral medications.
Heart failure patients unvaccinated against COVID-19 are three times more likely to die from it than boosted heart failure patients
A new study from Mount Sinai Heart found that heart failure patients unvaccinated against COVID-19 are three times more likely to die from it than those who are fully vaccinated and boosted. The research also shows that these unvaccinated patients face higher risks of hospitalization and ICU admission if infected with the virus.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Cardiac Failure·TypeObservational study·DateJun 9, 2022
Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 1 year in infants exposed to COVID-19 in utero
Infants born to mothers with positive SARS-CoV-2 tests during pregnancy were more likely to receive neurodevelopmental diagnoses by 12 months, even after accounting for preterm delivery. Longer studies are needed to confirm these associations and understand the long-term effects of in utero COVID-19 exposure.
SHIELD program a model for effective pandemic management, data show
The SHIELD program employed rapid saliva testing, real-time data analysis, and fast reporting to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The program's success led to a significant reduction in cases and deaths on campus, with Champaign County experiencing a third less COVID-19 cases than expected.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeCase study·DateJun 9, 2022
Einstein researchers awarded $3.5 million NIH grant to study brain changes caused by COVID-19
Researchers will examine if SARS-CoV-2 infection induces lasting changes in the brain and affects neurocognitive function using neuroimaging, cognitive, and immunological tests. The study aims to identify biomarkers for diagnosing long COVID and inform treatment approaches.
COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy could protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants
A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy can provide protection to newborns against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The study found a lower incidence of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants born to vaccinated mothers compared to unvaccinated mothers.
Unvaccinated children mount COVID-19 immune response, but vaccination may be key to strengthening immunity
A study found that unvaccinated children develop a rapid immune response to SARS-CoV-2, which may contribute to less severe symptoms, but limits the development of an immune memory response. Vaccination is believed to strengthen immunity by inducing key components such as memory T cell and B cell responses.
SourceThe Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity·JournalImmunity·TypeObservational study·DateJun 8, 2022
A bellwether for COVID-19
Researchers at Harvard Medical School used a new technique to analyze SARS-CoV-2 samples from university screening programs and found that omicron accounted for over 90% of infections just nine days after arrival. The study suggests universities can serve as monitoring hubs for early detection of infectious disease outbreaks.
New study unravels why COVID-19 antibody treatments aren’t as effective for new variants
A new study by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus explores the effects of multiple mutations in SARS-CoV-2 variants. The findings suggest that certain mutations work together to improve virus fitness, making it challenging for antibody treatments to neutralize new variants.
COVID-19 conspiracy theories associated with depression
A new study has found that people who believe in COVID-19 conspiracy theories are more likely to experience severe anxiety and depression. The research, published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, used a scale to measure belief in conspiracy theories and found a significant correlation with increased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Study suggests importance of a third COVID-19 vaccine for kidney transplant patients
A third dose of COVID-19 vaccine may be essential for kidney transplant patients in Japan to prevent severe disease and infection. Researchers found that only a third of patients developed sufficient antibodies after two doses, highlighting the need for additional protection.
Miniproteins that can launch two-pronged attacks on viral proteins
Researchers designed artificial peptides that can bind to viral proteins, blocking entry into cells and causing viruses to clump together. These 'miniproteins' were found to be thermostable and safe for use in humans, with promising results in lab tests and animal models.
COVID-19 patient antibodies point researchers toward broad coronavirus vaccines
Researchers have identified 30 COVID-19 patient antibodies that can neutralize a variety of coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-1 and bat coronaviruses. These broadly neutralizing antibodies may lead to the development of next-generation coronavirus vaccines offering broader protection.
Association of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy with incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in infants
A Norwegian study found that vaccinated mothers had a lower incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in their infants within the first four months of life. The study analyzed all live births between September 2021 and February 2022 and showed a significant reduction in infections among vaccinated infants.
No more flu for you? Discovery blocks influenza virus’ replication in cells
A team of researchers has found a way to block the replication of one strain of the influenza virus in human cells by inhibiting a specific protein modification process called SUMOylation. This breakthrough could lead to highly effective treatments for the flu and other respiratory viruses.
Blocking enzyme could hold the key to preventing, treating severe COVID-19
Researchers found that inhibiting caspase 11 reduced inflammation, tissue injury and blood clots in lung tissue of infected mice. This suggests potential therapeutic targets for treating severe COVID-19 symptoms.
Compared to COVID-19 PCR testing, dogs can detect infections with high sensitivity (97%), though lower specificity (91%) - even when patients are asymptomatic
A study published in PLOS ONE found that dogs can detect SARS-CoV-2 infections with high sensitivity (97%) and lower specificity (91%), even when patients are asymptomatic. The diagnostic accuracy of canine olfaction for non-invasive detection of COVID-19 was demonstrated in a clinical trial conducted in France and the UAE.
Food allergy is associated with lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection
A study by NIH found that people with food allergies have a lower risk of becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2. In contrast, obesity and high body mass index (BMI) are associated with increased risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 1, 2022
LJI scientists publish first head-to-head comparison of four COVID-19 vaccines
A new study published in Cell compares the four types of COVID-19 vaccines and reveals that most people retain some immune response to SARS-CoV-2. The researchers found that immune memory may not prevent infection but helps fight severe disease.
New study points to potential strategy to reduce fatigue after COVID-19 vaccination
A study suggests switching from intramuscular to subcutaneous injection may ease post-vaccination fatigue in humans, similar to findings in mice. Researchers identified molecular characteristics linked to increased fatigue and correlated them with baseline gene expression of immune cells.
Anti-Asian hate tweets during COVID-19
A University of Utah-led study found a surge in anti-Asian hate language on Twitter between January and March 2020, with clusters of hateful tweets spreading across the US. The researchers identified 15 geographic regions where anti-Asian hate was statistically higher than expected.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 31, 2022
An analysis of excess deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada
Excess deaths in Canadian provinces from March 2020 to October 2021 showed wide variability, with Quebec having the highest COVID-19 mortality rate and Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia having the lowest. The article calls for better data management to prepare for future health crises.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 30, 2022
Previous COVID-19 or MIS-C does not protect kids from Omicron
Children previously infected with COVID-19 or MIS-C are not protected against the newer Omicron variant. However, vaccination shows protective effects, according to a study published in Nature Communications.
COVID-19: Small study suggests maternal psychological distress during the pandemic may be associated with altered fetal brain development
A small study suggests that maternal psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic may be associated with changes in the brain of developing fetuses. The study found decreased brain structure and volumetric measures in fetuses from the pandemic cohort compared to the pre-pandemic cohort.
Overestimating population immunity contributed to U.S. Delta variant surge
A new study found that the delta variant surge in the US was partially due to overestimating population immunity, with only 67% of southern New Englanders actually immune. This underestimation led to inaccurate projections and an incorrect assumption about herd immunity.
Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections responsible for spreading of COVID-19 less than symptomatic infections
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 130 studies found that asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infections account for 14-50% of cases, with a secondary attack rate two-thirds lower in those without symptoms. Asymptomatic individuals are less infectious than symptomatic ones.
Study: Medicine for inflammatory bowel disease may protect against severe COVID-19
A recent study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that biologic drugs for inflammatory bowel disease may improve the T-cell immune response in patients vaccinated against COVID-19. This could potentially offer protection against severe disease. The study suggests that these treatments may be used to monitor vaccine and booster outcomes.
Marginalized communities of color face high COVID-19 risk
A UC Riverside study focuses on farm-working communities in the region, highlighting misinformation, lack of trust, and insecurity as major factors. The research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address health disparities and increase vaccine acceptance among vulnerable populations.
An alarming prevalence of smell, taste loss during COVID’s delta surge
A new study found that COVID-19's delta surge led to a significant prevalence of smell and taste loss in approximately 100% of active cases, contradicting self-reports. The loss persists even after mild infections, highlighting the need for ongoing surveillance.
Further evidence that mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is safe during pregnancy
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital studied mRNA vaccine safety in pregnant women, finding no Spike protein expression in placentas. The study provides further evidence of mRNA vaccine safety, supporting expanded vaccination efforts for vulnerable populations.
Link between exercise intensity and risk of infection
A new method measures individually measurable aerosol values during exercise, revealing moderate aerosol emissions at medium exertion and exponential increases above that point. The study suggests special protective measures are needed for high-intensity training to reduce infection risk.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2022
Protein nanoparticle vaccine shows potential for broader, safe SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, biomedical sciences researchers find
Researchers at Georgia State University developed a nanoparticle vaccine combining two proteins that induce immune responses against SARS-CoV-2. The vaccine shows potential for broader and safe protection with robust ADCC activity and sustained immunity.
Hunting for the immune cells that predispose people to severe COVID-19
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that the type of macrophage present in a person's body may determine how likely they are to develop severe inflammation in response to COVID-19. The research found that an aggressive subset of macrophages, known as M1 macrophages, can cause a cascade of events leading to multi-organ fa...
SARS-CoV-2 transmission, shedding according to vaccination status
A cohort study of healthcare workers and community participants found that fully vaccinated individuals had significantly less secondary transmission and shorter viable virus duration than partially vaccinated or unvaccinated individuals. The study suggests that vaccination status affects SARS-CoV-2 shedding and transmission.
Air pollution associated with more severe COVID-19
Long-term exposure to air pollutants like PM2.5, NO2, and O3 increases the risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes, including ICU admissions and deaths. The study analyzed data from over 151,000 people in Ontario, Canada, and found a significant association between chronic air pollution exposure and more severe COVID-19 severity.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2022
Exposure to air pollution can worsen patient outcomes from COVID-19
A new study by USC researchers found a significant link between exposure to fine particles (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. Long-term PM2.5 exposure was associated with a higher risk of mortality from COVID-19.
SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalAmerican Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateMay 24, 2022
Computer model predicts dominant SARS-CoV-2 variants
A machine learning model predicts which SARS-CoV-2 variants will dominate and cause surges in COVID-19 cases, offering a potential early warning system for public health officials. The model, PyR0, can analyze millions of viral genomes in an hour, estimating the effect of genetic mutations on the virus's fitness.
SourceBroad Institute of MIT and Harvard·JournalScience·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 24, 2022
Further insights into SARS-CoV-2 spike protein glycan shield
A recent study published in Frontiers in Microbiology reveals the correlation between sugar identity and flexibility in SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein. The researchers used high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and computer simulation to understand the impact of glycans on antibody recognition and protein shielding.
U of M receives NIAID grant to develop drug treatments for future viral pandemics
The University of Minnesota has received a $66 million grant from the NIAID to establish a center for developing antiviral drugs for pandemic-level viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. The Midwest Antiviral Drug Discovery Center will bring together investigators from the University and sixteen other institutions nationwide.
Factors associated with Anti–SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels after 2 vaccine doses
A study of 50 people found that higher body weights were inversely correlated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels six months after receiving two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. The findings suggest that weight may impact immune response to the vaccine.
Genomic differences selected through evolution may offer clues as to why COVID-19 outcomes vary widely
A new study analyzed genomic data from global populations to identify genetic variants linked to COVID-19 severity. The investigation found dozens of genomic variations in critical genes, suggesting these may have evolved to protect against viruses similar to SARS-CoV-2.
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022
Music alleviates collective grief
Researchers analyze viral video of musicians covering Michael Jackson song to understand how it alleviated collective grief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study identifies key traits that allow empathy and resilience in the face of trauma, highlighting the value of music as a non-pharmacological strategy.
Studies reveal key clues about COVID-19 immunity, immune recall
Studies found people infected and vaccinated had similarly robust antibody responses against variants alpha through omicron; Immune memory cells against common cold coronaviruses may be markers of longer immunity. Researchers hope to improve vaccines with these insights.
SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalScience Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
Repurposed antibiotic may be an effective therapeutic in COVID-19 infected mice
A study published in PLOS Pathogens suggests that the repurposed antibiotic clofoctol may be an effective therapeutic for SARS-CoV-2 infected mice, with decreased viral load, reduced inflammatory gene expression, and lowered pulmonary pathology. Further studies are needed to confirm its potential as a treatment for COVID-19 patients.
Study shines light on longevity of COVID-19 immune response
A new study analyzing 8 cohorts of COVID-19 patients found that antibody responses in previously infected individuals were relatively stable, providing protection from reinfection unless the new infection was the Omicron variant. Vaccination also boosted protection, with rapid immune responses observed even after a single vaccine dose.
Possible discovery of mechanism behind mysterious COVID-19 symptoms
Scientists found a connection between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the production of misfolded proteins called amyloids, which can cause complex symptoms and damage in organs such as the heart and kidneys. The researchers' discovery may help explain why COVID-19 often affects multiple parts of the body.
SourceLinköping University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022
COVID booster needed for broad protection against omicron variants
Two studies found that a third dose of mRNA vaccine generates high enough antibody levels to neutralize BA.2 and deltacron, as well as other omicron sublineage variants. Booster shots show stronger protection against these variants than just two doses, particularly against deltacron.
How three mutations work together to spur new SARS-CoV-2 variants
A recent study reveals that nearly half of SARS-CoV-2 variants contain the same three mutations, which together improve the virus's ability to infect human cells and evade the immune system. The combination of K417, E484, and N501 mutations enhances viral fitness by balancing positive and negative selection pressures.
'Natural immunity' from omicron is weak and limited, study finds
A new study by Gladstone Institutes and UC San Francisco found that infection with the Omicron variant provides weak immune response in unvaccinated individuals, failing to confer broad protection against other variants. In contrast, vaccinated individuals show stronger immunity against multiple COVID-19 strains.
A new way to combat SARS-CoV-2: Using a desktop-sized air-curtain to inactivate almost 100% of coronavirus particles
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a device combining an air-curtain and LED irradiation to inactivate viruses in close environments. The technology blocks exhaled air and destroys virus particles, inactivating 99.9% of COVID-19 particles.
Routine surveillance, vaccination on university campus during spread of Omicron variant
Researchers evaluated various vaccination, testing, and surveillance measures to control Omicron variant spread on a university campus. The study found that routine surveillance and vaccination efforts were effective in reducing case numbers and hospitalizations.