Wuhan Virologist Says Lab Has No Close Relatives to COVID Virus (December 4, 2024)
Chinese virologist Shi Zhengli has presented evidence that her lab did not work with close relatives of SARS-CoV-2. At a conference in Japan on December 4, 2024, she revealed data on 56 new betacoronaviruses collected from bats between 2004 and 2021. The analysis shows that none of these viruses are the most recent ancestors of SARS-CoV-2, supporting her claim that this virus was never studied in her lab. Shi, known for her research on bat coronaviruses in Wuhan, continues to face speculation about a possible lab leak. Evolutionary biologists have stated that these results further validate her previous statements.
Source: www.scientificamerican.com
COVID Rates Are Rising Again: Why the Virus Thrives in Summer, July 19, 2024
COVID-19 cases are surging again this summer, driven by a mix of factors including human behavior, environmental conditions, and the evolving nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus has shown peaks in both summer and winter, unlike most respiratory infections which typically peak in winter. Key factors contributing to the summer surge include increased travel, gatherings, and the presence of new, more transmissible variants. Additionally, indoor environments with poor ventilation during hot weather can facilitate the virus’s spread. As climate change exacerbates heatwaves, people will likely spend even more time indoors, potentially boosting COVID-19 transmission. Despite these challenges, effective strategies such as vaccination, improved ventilation, and avoiding crowded spaces can help manage the risk.
New COVID and Flu Combo Vaccine Shows Promise, July 3, 2024
A new combination vaccine for COVID-19 and influenza has shown promising results in its first large clinical trial, demonstrating greater immune protection than single-target vaccines. Moderna’s mRNA-based vaccine was found to be particularly effective in adults over 50 and is now set to seek FDA approval. This innovative vaccine simplifies the immunization process and could potentially include additional pathogens like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in the future. The success of this mRNA technology highlights its potential for developing more efficient vaccines and reducing the number of shots required for comprehensive protection.
