Infectious Diseases

New research indicates that severe cases of COVID-19 or influenza can alter lung immune cells, potentially increasing cancer risk months or years afterward. The study, conducted by scientists at the University of Virginia, highlights the role of chronic inflammation in this process and emphasizes vaccination as a preventive measure. Findings suggest closer monitoring for affected patients to enable early detection.

23 Mwezi wa pili, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Researchers at Stanford Medicine have created an experimental nasal spray vaccine that protects mice against multiple respiratory threats, including COVID-19, flu, bacterial pneumonia, and allergens. The vaccine activates the lungs' innate immune system for months, offering broad defense without targeting specific pathogens. Published in Science on February 19, the study suggests potential for human trials soon.

In a unique study, influenza-infected college students shared a hotel room with healthy middle-aged volunteers for two weeks, yet no infections occurred. Researchers attribute this to limited coughing, good ventilation, and participants' age. The findings underscore the role of airflow and masks in preventing flu spread.

6 Mwezi wa kwanza, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Researchers have identified migrions, virus-like structures that enable faster and more severe viral spread by hijacking cell movement. These packages, formed in migrating cells infected with vesicular stomatitis virus, deliver multiple viral genomes simultaneously to new cells. The discovery challenges traditional models of infection and highlights increased disease potential in animal tests.

An experimental nasal vaccine has for the first time prevented the colonization of whooping cough bacteria in humans, according to a recently published clinical trial. This breakthrough could curb the disease's spread, particularly in a year of record cases in England. The BPZE1 vaccine, developed by ILiAD Biotechnologies, reduced bacterial presence by over 97% compared to placebo.

27 Mwezi wa kumi na moja, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI Imethibitishwa ukweli

Scientists at the University of Queensland have captured the first near‑atomic, high‑resolution 3D images of the yellow fever virus, detailing how the surface of the long‑used vaccine strain differs from virulent, disease‑causing strains. The work sheds light on how the virus is recognised by the immune system and could support improved vaccines for yellow fever and related mosquito‑borne diseases.