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Virus

All articles tagged with #virus

Virus Exposure Triggers Parkinson's-Like Brain Damage in Mice, Study Finds
science1 day ago

Virus Exposure Triggers Parkinson's-Like Brain Damage in Mice, Study Finds

A Texas A&M study used Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) in mice to model Parkinson's-like neurodegeneration. The virus infected dopamine-producing neurons and caused motor deficits that persisted after the virus was cleared, suggesting viruses could contribute to Parkinson's risk alongside genetic or environmental factors. This new viral model offers a tool to study disease progression and etiology, complementing genetic or toxin-based models, though TMEV itself does not infect humans.

AI-Powered Virus Map Narrows Pandemic Threats to Key Viral Players
science3 days ago

AI-Powered Virus Map Narrows Pandemic Threats to Key Viral Players

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh built a catalog ranking 239 human-infecting RNA viruses by transmission potential, lethality, and how closely they resemble known human pathogens. About two-thirds are zoonotic, and the highest-risk viruses cluster near highly transmissible human viruses like SARS‑CoV‑2, making a novel measles-related virus especially concerning. AI-driven tools such as SpillOver, CEPI’s VISTA, and the CDC’s influenza risk assessment framework are used to pre-develop vaccines and antivirals for top-ranked families, shifting pandemic preparedness from reactive stockpiling to proactive defense. While the catalog doesn’t predict the next outbreak, it narrows the search and can speed public health responses when a threat emerges.

Wart‑Ridden Squirrels Roam U.S. Backyards, Traced to a Viral Skin Disease
science16 days ago

Wart‑Ridden Squirrels Roam U.S. Backyards, Traced to a Viral Skin Disease

Photographs show gray squirrels with oozing, wart‑like tumors across several states. Wildlife experts say the condition is squirrel fibromatosis caused by leporipoxvirus, not dangerous to humans, pets, or birds. The virus spreads through contact between infected and healthy squirrels, and lesions typically clear in 4–8 weeks, though severe cases can affect internal organs. A surge in sightings last August was noted and may be linked to bird feeders that promote transmission. It’s a wildlife health issue, not a human health threat.

Virus sidelining Arnaldi sends Cobolli into French Open final
sports1 month ago

Virus sidelining Arnaldi sends Cobolli into French Open final

Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi withdrew from his French Open semi-final with a virus, handing Flavio Cobolli a walkover into the final where Cobolli will face Alexander Zverev. Arnaldi, who had spent nearly 20 hours on court en route to the last four, cited dizziness, inability to eat or drink after a lengthy run, and apologized to the fans as Cobolli prepared for the final.

MERS Virus Spreads to Europe Amid Global Health Alerts
health6 months ago

MERS Virus Spreads to Europe Amid Global Health Alerts

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.

Global Spread of New Untreatable Virus with Flu and Covid-like Symptoms
health6 months ago

Global Spread of New Untreatable Virus with Flu and Covid-like Symptoms

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.

Rising Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Prompt Caution in Maryland and Beyond
health8 months ago

Rising Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease Cases Prompt Caution in Maryland and Beyond

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.

Severe Mpox Cases Reported in California Amid Potential Local Spread
health8 months ago

Severe Mpox Cases Reported in California Amid Potential Local Spread

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.