All articles tagged with #virus
A little-known respiratory virus called human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is spreading in multiple states, including New Jersey, drawing attention from the CDC; most people have likely already had it by age five, making awareness of symptoms important as cases rise.
Former FDA commissioner Scott Gottlieb argues vaccines do more than prevent immediate infection: by stopping viruses, vaccines also avert lasting health problems, countering anti-vaccine misinformation.
France confirmed its first cases of MERS in over a decade, with 19 cases globally in 2025, highlighting ongoing risks of this deadly virus, which is primarily transmitted from camels and has a high fatality rate. The WHO emphasizes the need for strengthened surveillance and infection control to prevent further spread, especially as the virus re-emerges in Europe amid ongoing COVID-19 recovery efforts.
Adenovirus, a highly contagious and more resilient virus than Covid and flu, is spreading rapidly with symptoms like sore throat, runny nose, and shortness of breath. It is untreatable with common disinfectants, and most cases are mild, but vulnerable groups should monitor symptoms closely, especially if fever exceeds 40°C or persists beyond three days. The rise in cases may be linked to fewer flu vaccinations and previous flu surges.
A new, more resilient virus called adenovirus is spreading globally, exhibiting symptoms similar to the flu but with limited treatment options, and is resistant to disinfectants, raising concerns among health experts about its contagiousness and potential severity, especially for vulnerable populations.
Scientists have discovered 'Migrions,' a new virus-like structure formed when vesicular stomatitis virus is packaged into migrasomes, which enhances viral spread by hitching a ride on migrating cells, leading to faster and more aggressive infections.
Stanford Medicine researchers have linked the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which most people carry, to the development of lupus by showing how infected B cells can trigger autoimmune responses, potentially opening new avenues for treatment and prevention.
An increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease outbreaks has been reported in Maryland schools and childcare centers, with 276 cases so far this year, significantly higher than previous years. The disease, caused by coxsackievirus A16, is generally mild and resolves on its own within a week, but prevention through good hygiene is recommended as there is no vaccine.
Three cases of severe clade I mpox, a more dangerous strain of monkeypox, have been reported in California, marking the first US spread of this type. All patients are hospitalized and recovering. The virus spreads through close contact, and vaccination with Jynneos can reduce severity, though it doesn't fully prevent infection. Health officials emphasize monitoring and vaccination to control the outbreak.
New York health officials confirmed the state's first locally acquired case of chikungunya virus in six years, with the individual having traveled outside the region but not internationally. The virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, poses a very low current risk due to seasonal mosquito activity, and no local mosquito pools have tested positive. The illness causes symptoms like fever and joint pain, and while rarely fatal, vulnerable populations should remain cautious.
Northern India, especially Delhi, is experiencing a rapid spread of H3N2 influenza, with a significant number of cases and symptoms affecting vulnerable groups. Precautionary measures and vigilant monitoring are recommended to prevent further escalation, though the current risk of a pandemic remains low.
Four schools in Hidalgo County are experiencing an outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, with 60 confirmed cases among children, emphasizing the importance of hand hygiene and isolation to prevent spread.
The CDC has issued a health alert about a new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with 37 confirmed cases and 19 deaths, but the risk to the U.S. remains low. Travelers to the affected areas are advised to avoid contact with sick individuals and monitor for symptoms, while healthcare providers should be vigilant for EVD symptoms and follow safety protocols. The outbreak is centered in Kasai Province, and CDC is supporting response efforts.
A study reveals that a hidden virus inside the deadly fungus Aspergillus fumigatus may be exploited to develop new treatments for fungal infections, as targeting the virus in mice improved survival and reduced fungal burden, suggesting a novel approach to combat invasive aspergillosis.
Mosquitoes in Imperial County tested positive for Saint Louis Encephalitis, a severe brain inflammation disease with no available vaccine or treatment, prompting health officials to advise precautions like eliminating standing water and using insect repellent to reduce risk.