Vampire viruses prey on other viruses to replicate themselves − and may hold the key to new antiviral therapies

Researchers discovered a satellite virus latching onto the neck of another virus called MindFlayer. Studying the viral arms race between similar viruses could lead to new ways to fight infections.

Ivan Erill, Professor of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore County • conversation
Nov. 3, 2023 ~7 min

Your immune system makes its own antiviral drug − and it's likely one of the most ancient

The human body has been making antivirals for eons, long before scientists did. A protein in your cells called viperin produces molecules that work similarly to the COVID-19 antiviral remdesivir.

Neil Marsh, Professor of Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan • conversation
Oct. 11, 2023 ~8 min


Several Down syndrome features may be linked to a hyperactive antiviral immune response – new research

People with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome 21. Understanding the effects of those triplicated genes could help improve the health of those with Down syndrome and other medical conditions.

Joaquin Espinosa, Professor of Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus • conversation
June 5, 2023 ~8 min

RSV treatments for young children are lacking, but the record 2022 cold and flu season highlights the urgency for vaccines and other preventive strategies

While RSV can become severe for any child, it poses a particularly serious threat for the youngest babies and for high-risk children.

Flor M. Munoz, Associate Professor of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine • conversation
Dec. 16, 2022 ~10 min

Monkeypox is now a national public health emergency in the U.S. – an epidemiologist explains what this means

Declaring monkeypox a national health emergency will allow the U.S. government to direct resources and funds where needed to help slow the spread of the virus.

Kathryn H. Jacobsen, William E. Cooper Distinguished University Chair, Professor of Health Studies, University of Richmond • conversation
Aug. 6, 2022 ~7 min

How the omicron subvariant BA.5 became a master of disguise – and what it means for the current COVID-19 surge

Face masks are still an effective way to help stop the spread of the BA.5 subvariant.

Suresh V. Kuchipudi, Professor and Chair of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Penn State • conversation
July 26, 2022 ~8 min

Biden tests positive for COVID-19: An infectious disease doctor explains the risks and treatments available for the 79-year-old president

According to a letter from Biden’s doctor, the president has a runny nose, mild fatigue and a slight cough. The letter also noted that Biden began taking an antiviral drug the morning he tested positive.

Patrick Jackson, Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases, University of Virginia • conversation
July 21, 2022 ~7 min

What is Paxlovid and how will it help the fight against coronavirus? An infectious diseases physician answers questions on the COVID-19 pill

An infections disease doctor discusses the use, benefits and availability of a drug to prevent severe COVID-19.

Patrick Jackson, Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases, University of Virginia • conversation
April 28, 2022 ~6 min


How the 'test to treat' initiative aims to get ahead of the next wave of COVID-19

Earlier detection and treatment of COVID-19 by health care providers in pharmacies could help prevent surges in infection rates and severe illness.

Adrian V. Hernandez, Associate Professor of Comparative Effectiveness and Outcomes Research, University of Connecticut • conversation
April 5, 2022 ~10 min

Could oral antiviral pills be a game-changer for COVID-19? An infectious disease physician explains why these options are badly needed

Merck and Pfizer both have oral antiviral pills under review by the FDA. Such treatments could help turn the tide of the pandemic.

Patrick Jackson, Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases, University of Virginia • conversation
Nov. 19, 2021 ~9 min

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