Renowned Virus Researcher Warns of Potential Pandemic Threat from Ancient Viruses in Arctic Permafrost
Renowned virus researcher Jean-Michel Claverie warns of the potential threat of future pandemics originating from ancient viruses emerging from Arctic permafrost. His groundbreaking discovery of ‘zombie viruses’ dating back up to 48,500 years highlights the urgent need for proactive research and risk mitigation strategies to address this public health concern.
Experts Call for Global Genomic Surveillance System to Prevent Future Pandemics
Experts are advocating for a global genomic surveillance system to prevent future pandemics by utilizing real-time sequencing to track the spread of new diseases. Whole genome sequencing is highlighted as crucial for swiftly identifying and responding to emerging health threats, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Universal access to real-time surveillance is emphasized as a proactive measure for global health security.
Influenza Identified as Most Likely Cause of Next Global Pandemic, Survey Shows
An international survey of 187 senior disease experts reveals that the next global pandemic is most likely to be caused by a strain of the flu virus. The study highlights the constant evolution and mutation of influenza as the basis for concern, with 57% of experts identifying it as the greatest threat to global health. Other potential causes include a hypothetical virus known as Disease X and Sars-CoV-2, responsible for Covid-19, but influenza remains the primary concern among the global scientific community.
New Mutant Strain of Monkeypox Raises Pandemic Concerns in Congo
A new mutant strain of monkeypox with ‘pandemic potential’ has been identified in Kamituga, Democratic Republic of Congo, raising concerns among health officials. Researchers emphasize the need for urgent measures to contain the virus and prevent a global outbreak, highlighting the risks posed by the mobile population in the densely populated gold mining town. Calls for vaccines, drugs, and enhanced surveillance measures are made to prevent another global mpox outbreak.
Study Shows Older Adults in the US Still Spending Increased Time at Home Post-Pandemic
Research from the University of Colorado Boulder reveals that more than half of older adults in the U.S. are still spending increased time at home and socializing less in public spaces post-pandemic. Fear of infection and uncomfortable social dynamics are primary reasons for this shift, with lasting impacts on the physical, mental, social, and cognitive health of aging Americans.
Study Finds Increased Mental Health Challenges Among Adolescents in Racial and Ethnic Minorities During and After Pandemic
Recent historical, political and public health events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have led to increased stress and mental health challenges among adolescents in racial and ethnic minorities. A study published in Academic Pediatrics found that rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts significantly increased during the pandemic, especially among Black, Asian, and Hispanic females.
Ecological Countermeasures for Preventing Pathogen Spillover
Learn about the importance of ecological countermeasures in preventing pathogen spillover and subsequent pandemics. This article emphasizes the need for a shift in focus towards prevention and proposes ecological interventions to disrupt spillover mechanisms. Discover the role of ecological approaches in a comprehensive pandemic prevention strategy and the significance of investing in prevention to complement existing preparedness and response efforts.
UK Health Authorities Advise Social Distancing from Wild Birds Amid Concerns of Potential Pandemic
Amid concerns about another potential pandemic, UK health authorities advise maintaining social distancing from wild birds to lower the risk of bird flu transmission to humans. The UKHSA recommends a two-meter distance from birds and emphasizes the importance of adhering to recommended distancing measures. With the current shortage of bird flu vaccines, preventative measures and surveillance are crucial for preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases.
NIH Discontinues COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has discontinued its guidance on COVID-19 treatment as the availability of treatments like Pfizer’s Paxlovid has evolved. The decision reflects the evolving landscape of COVID-19 treatment and the decreasing frequency of meetings and discussions by the guideline group.
20,000 Missed Prostate Cancer Diagnoses During Pandemic
Research by the University of Surrey and the University of Oxford suggests that almost 20,000 cases of prostate cancer may have been missed during the pandemic, leading to a 31% drop in diagnoses in the UK. Death rates among men with prostate cancer tripled during the first year of the pandemic, highlighting the urgent need for a dedicated cancer plan to aid in the recovery and ultimately save lives.