Alaskapox has claimed its first victim. The virus was first detected in 2015, but the people it infected so far only had mild symptoms. But now, an elderly man has died battling Alaskapox. Is this the start of new epidemic?

Gravitas | Alaskapox: The new killer virus claims its first victim

What would happen if the world faces an even deadlier strain of unknown virus? Or worse many more such viruses that lie hidden deep within the permafrost. Permafrost is a permanently frozen layer on or under the earth's surface. It consists of soil, gravel, and sand, usually bound together by ice. The soil beneath has been kept at below zero temperatures for hundreds of thousands of years.

Scientists sound alarm for potential outbreak of Zombie Virus

Scientists sound alarm for potential outbreak

Pets having close contact with their owners, including sharing beds, snuggling and eating in the same area, might be more prone to catching human illnesses. According to a study published in Zoonoses: Infections Affecting Humans and Animals, pets can catch several diseases from their human owners, including swine flu, human norovirus, COVID-19 and tuberculosis to dengue, fungal infections and parasites.

Pets having close contact with their owners, including sharing beds, snuggling and eating in the same area, might be more prone to catching human illnesses. According to a study published in Zoonoses: Infections Affecting Humans and Animals, pets can catch several diseases from their human owners, including swine flu, human norovirus, COVID-19 and tuberculosis to dengue, fungal infections and parasites. While dogs and cats reported the most cases, researchers found a few in horses, ferrets and parrots. Zoonoses are diseases which pass between humans and other species. Over 60 per cent of human pathogens are zoonotic in origin. When humans pass diseases to animals, it is called reverse zoonosis. Benjamin Anderson, the study's author and an assistant professor at the University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions, said, "We're starting to see examples of reverse zoonosis. Pets are more susceptible than, maybe, we previously thought." He added, "Typically, the viruses that I will have as a human are not going to fit into the receptors that a dog or cat has." ALSO READ | Mysterious radio signals might be coming from a black hole in the Milky Way However, some pathogens, like COVID-19 and flu, mutate to have a structure that allows them to penetrate through the cells of another species. This way, they can transfer between two species. Zoonosis and reverse zoonosis occur between mammals, as species more closely related are more prone to transferable diseases. But sometimes, the pathogen mutates enough to jump the gap and spreads between mammals, birds, or even reptiles. According to the study, reverse zoonosis provides another channel for diseases to spread. It has the potential to amplify an epidemic endangering humans. For instance, pigs infected by human flu and bird flu serve as a mixing pot for new viruses. "While pathogens certainly can move from animals to other animals and can be picked up from the environment, exposure to humans also plays an important role. It's this constant back-and-forth exchange that happens over time, increasing the probability of a mutation taking place that allows the pathogen to infect a new host," Anderson said. When animals get affected by human diseases, it is more complicated to track them as they don't often exhibit infections. The study's authors have urged people with pets to avoid close contact with the animals, especially in case of COVID-19 or flu. It's not always possible to keep your pets away for people who have strong bonds with their pets or those with a service animal. In such cases, people should ensure that the animal does not come in contact with body fluids like sneezes or snot. (With inputs from agencies)

Beware! You might be making your pets sick unknowingly, new study suggests

Chinese scientists trained by the PLA are experimenting with a deadly new COVID strain. This strain has a mortality rate of 100%. Will it spill over to humans and give rise to another pandemic?

Gravitas | China working on Wuhan virus 2.0?

Cases of a new Omicron sub-variant called JN.1 are rising worldwide; Singapore, India, UK, Germany among many nations report rising cases. The World Health Organisation urges nations to take strict measures.

COVID JN.1 subvariant cases surge worldwide, India records 142 new cases

If the coronavirus pandemic wasn’t enough to instil fear in the minds of the public about how catastrophic a virus can be, scientists have now warned about a deadly pathogen ‘Factor X’ that is lurking in the Earth’s permafrost waiting to be unleashed.

"Permafrost" describes earth that has been frozen for two or more consecutive years. Two years is a minimum, and some areas in Siberia have been frozen for over 650,000.

Experts say that global warming is speeding up the glacier ice melt in the polar regions which is host to primordial viruses that have been lying dormant for thousands of years.

In the last five decades, the Arctic region has been heating up to four times faster than the rest of the world, causing permafrost temperatures to rise by roughly minus 17 degrees Celsius per decade.

<h2>Global warming could unleash viruses&nbsp;</h2>

Experts have warned that these viruses could trigger the release of extinct diseases such as smallpox or pathogens that once wreaked havoc among our ancestors.

"There is a Factor X that we really don't know very much about," Sweden’s Umeå University infectious disease specialist Birgitta Evengård&nbsp;told Newsweek.

“Deep down in the permafrost, there must be microbes – especially viruses but also bacteria – that were on Earth long before Homo sapiens existed.”

"There is a lot we don't know, and what very few people have looked into is the permafrost," Evengård added.

The concerns about ancient virus resurfacing were first raised when a group of French and Russian researchers reactivated a giant virus in 2014 that had laid dormant under the Siberian permafrost for 30,000 years

<h2>Scientists note 6 pathogens that can be resurrected&nbsp;</h2>

This virus, which has been named a pandoravirus, infects only amoeba. Though it does not pose a threat to humans, the study cites that such occurrences might happen in the future.

"If amoeba viruses can survive that long in permafrost, this strongly suggests that animal/human-infecting ones could remain infectious in the same condition," Jean-Michel Claverie, who led the study, told Newsweek.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-pooh-pooh-claims-that-extinct-ancient-human-homo-naledi-buried-its-dead-658437">Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient human 'Homo naledi' buried its dead</a>

"In addition, we know that the DNA [of animal/human-infecting viruses] are detected in permafrost."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/alien-hunting-physicist-claims-ufo-as-source-of-explosive-sound-heard-in-new-england-658458">Alien-hunting physicist claims 'UFO' as source of explosive sound heard in New England</a>

Other research has shown that even microscopic animals can be resurrected from the permafrost.

Scientists have highlighted&nbsp;six frozen pathogens they believe pose the biggest threat to humanity.

(With inputs from agencies)

If the coronavirus pandemic wasn’t enough to instil fear in the minds of the public about how catastrophic a virus can be, scientists have now warned about a deadly pathogen ‘Factor X’ that is lurking in the Earth’s permafrost waiting to be unleashed.

If the coronavirus pandemic wasn’t enough to instil fear in the minds of the public about how catastrophic a virus can be, scientists have now warned about a deadly pathogen ‘Factor X’ that is lurking in the Earth’s permafrost waiting to be unleashed. "Permafrost" describes earth that has been frozen for two or more consecutive years. Two years is a minimum, and some areas in Siberia have been frozen for over 650,000. Experts say that global warming is speeding up the glacier ice melt in the polar regions which is host to primordial viruses that have been lying dormant for thousands of years. In the last five decades, the Arctic region has been heating up to four times faster than the rest of the world, causing permafrost temperatures to rise by roughly minus 17 degrees Celsius per decade. Global warming could unleash viruses Experts have warned that these viruses could trigger the release of extinct diseases such as smallpox or pathogens that once wreaked havoc among our ancestors. "There is a Factor X that we really don't know very much about," Sweden’s Umeå University infectious disease specialist Birgitta Evengård told Newsweek. “Deep down in the permafrost, there must be microbes – especially viruses but also bacteria – that were on Earth long before Homo sapiens existed.” "There is a lot we don't know, and what very few people have looked into is the permafrost," Evengård added. The concerns about ancient virus resurfacing were first raised when a group of French and Russian researchers reactivated a giant virus in 2014 that had laid dormant under the Siberian permafrost for 30,000 years Scientists note 6 pathogens that can be resurrected This virus, which has been named a pandoravirus, infects only amoeba. Though it does not pose a threat to humans, the study cites that such occurrences might happen in the future. "If amoeba viruses can survive that long in permafrost, this strongly suggests that animal/human-infecting ones could remain infectious in the same condition," Jean-Michel Claverie, who led the study, told Newsweek. Also read | Scientists pooh-pooh claims that extinct ancient human 'Homo naledi' buried its dead "In addition, we know that the DNA [of animal/human-infecting viruses] are detected in permafrost." Also read | Alien-hunting physicist claims 'UFO' as source of explosive sound heard in New England Other research has shown that even microscopic animals can be resurrected from the permafrost. Scientists have highlighted six frozen pathogens they believe pose the biggest threat to humanity. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists warn catastrophic ‘Factor X’ virus waiting to be unleashed, might wipe out humanity

Multiple Indian politicians especially from the opposition have alleged that they've received a hacking warning on their phones. iPhone manufacturer Apple has alerted a string of opposition leaders in India about what is called a possible state-sponsored attack on their phones.

Apple warns politicians of 'state sponsored' phone attacks | World News | WION

An ancient skin disfiguring infection – leishmaniasis – which is also known by various nicknames across the world like Baghdad boil, Calcutta ulcer and Jericho button, is not something well-known in America. 
 
But Americans are likely to know a lot about this mysterious disease as evidence shows that the parasitic skin infection usually found among international travellers has now turned into an endemic (a situation where the disease is constantly present)&nbsp;in parts of the United States. 
 
The infection has been creeping up mostly in non-travelers in Texas where doctors are needed to report the cases to health authorities. The infection has also been found spreading in southeast Oklahoma and Arizona. 
 
Experts have raised concerns that the huge number of critters which are capable of harbouring and transmitting the infection and climate change are further increasing the spread of disease.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/disease-x-likely-to-prove-20-times-deadlier-compared-to-covid-19-hints-expert-639469">&nbsp;'Disease X' likely to prove 20 times deadlier compared to COVID-19, hints expert</a>

In the genetic testing of 86 locally acquired cases, it was seen that the majority were infected by a Leishmania mexicana parasite's variant that is likely to have originated in the US. 
 
“There have been previous indications of local transmission based on a small number of case reports,” stated Mary Kamb, a medical epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which carried out the study. 
 
“Now, for the first time, we have a distinct genetic fingerprint from a relatively large cluster, providing further evidence that leishmaniasis may be well-established in some parts of the US,” he added. The results were presented at a scientific meeting held in Chicago on Thursday (Oct 19).

<h2>Sand fly transmitting Leishmaniasis-causing parasites</h2>

Around 70 species of sand fly have been transmitting the Leishmaniasis-causing parasites. The main culprits in the western hemisphere are Lutzomyia insects which are known to feed on blood. They are discovered in different parts of the United States, especially in southern states. 
 
The parasite has been residing in a “reservoir” of animals, which are mostly opossums, armadillos and rodents, which female sandflies feed on. The virus has also infected American cats and dogs, and there has been concern that imported dogs, which were infected abroad, can harbour a life-threatening visceral form of the disease.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: 'Disease X' could be 20 times deadlier than the Wuhan virus

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Cutaneous leishmaniasis in humans has been causing hard-to-heal, ulcerating sores which are the size of a half-dollar or larger and can last six to 12 months. Even though there are medications for treating them, the sores can turn into disfiguring scars if they are left to fester. 
 
In Texas, dermatologists are accustomed to spotting the infection, however, it is not well-recognised in other states. Kamb said that it hampered efforts to understand how widely the parasites have spread.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An ancient skin disfiguring infection – leishmaniasis – which is also known by various nicknames across the world like Baghdad boil, Calcutta ulcer and Jericho button, is not something well-known in America.

An ancient skin disfiguring infection – leishmaniasis – which is also known by various nicknames across the world like Baghdad boil, Calcutta ulcer and Jericho button, is not something well-known in America. But Americans are likely to know a lot about this mysterious disease as evidence shows that the parasitic skin infection usually found among international travellers has now turned into an endemic (a situation where the disease is constantly present) in parts of the United States. The infection has been creeping up mostly in non-travelers in Texas where doctors are needed to report the cases to health authorities. The infection has also been found spreading in southeast Oklahoma and Arizona. Experts have raised concerns that the huge number of critters which are capable of harbouring and transmitting the infection and climate change are further increasing the spread of disease. ALSO READ | 'Disease X' likely to prove 20 times deadlier compared to COVID-19, hints expert In the genetic testing of 86 locally acquired cases, it was seen that the majority were infected by a Leishmania mexicana parasite's variant that is likely to have originated in the US. “There have been previous indications of local transmission based on a small number of case reports,” stated Mary Kamb, a medical epidemiologist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which carried out the study. “Now, for the first time, we have a distinct genetic fingerprint from a relatively large cluster, providing further evidence that leishmaniasis may be well-established in some parts of the US,” he added. The results were presented at a scientific meeting held in Chicago on Thursday (Oct 19). Sand fly transmitting Leishmaniasis-causing parasites Around 70 species of sand fly have been transmitting the Leishmaniasis-causing parasites. The main culprits in the western hemisphere are Lutzomyia insects which are known to feed on blood. They are discovered in different parts of the United States, especially in southern states. The parasite has been residing in a “reservoir” of animals, which are mostly opossums, armadillos and rodents, which female sandflies feed on. The virus has also infected American cats and dogs, and there has been concern that imported dogs, which were infected abroad, can harbour a life-threatening visceral form of the disease. WATCH | Gravitas: 'Disease X' could be 20 times deadlier than the Wuhan virus Cutaneous leishmaniasis in humans has been causing hard-to-heal, ulcerating sores which are the size of a half-dollar or larger and can last six to 12 months. Even though there are medications for treating them, the sores can turn into disfiguring scars if they are left to fester. In Texas, dermatologists are accustomed to spotting the infection, however, it is not well-recognised in other states. Kamb said that it hampered efforts to understand how widely the parasites have spread. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US slowly getting caught in proliferating skin-disfiguring infection?

Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid. But are we ready to face such pandemics again?&nbsp;

A French virologist has raised concerns over his discovery of viruses frozen thousands of years ago, but remain alive. He said that those frozen viruses might re-emerge to threaten humanity. If it happens, it will be because of global warming due to the result of climate change.&nbsp;

Virologist Jean-Michel Claverie found viruses frozen for as long as 50,000 years in places such as the Siberian permafrost which remain&nbsp;infectious.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-22bn-people-in-india-pak-to-face-deadly-heat-if-global-temperatures-rise-by-2-degrees-celsius-644880">2.2 billion people in India, Pak to face deadly heat waves if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees</a>&nbsp;

Bloomberg reported on Monday (Oct 9) that in an interview, at his laboratory in the Luminy campus of Aix-Marseille University, France, Claverie said: "With climate change, we are used to thinking of dangers coming from the south." He referred to the spread of vector-borne diseases from warmer tropical regions.&nbsp;

He added, "Now, we realise there might be some danger coming from the north as the permafrost thaws and frees microbes, bacteria and viruses."&nbsp;

Scientists fear that the Arctic could be ice-free in summers by the 2030s amid climate change as&nbsp; the planet is already 1.2 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/the-amazon-may-still-have-thousands-of-ancient-structures-beneath-it-study-645076">The Amazon may still have thousands of ancient structures beneath it</a>&nbsp;

Global average temperatures from January to September were 1.4 degrees Celsius higher than 1850-1900, which is almost breaching the 1.5C warming goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said in a report.&nbsp;

That threshold was the more ambitious target of the accord and is seen as essential to avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of climate change.&nbsp;

The January-September average global temperature was 0.05C higher than the same nine-month period in 2016, the warmest year recorded so far.&nbsp;

The El Nino phenomenon, which warms waters in the southern Pacific and stokes hotter weather beyond, is likely to see 2023 becoming the hottest year on record in the next three months.&nbsp;

Claverie's documentation of viruses raised concerns that a rise in global temperature will release dormant pathogens, which are a lesser explored danger.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid.

Humanity will always remember the coronavirus pandemic which has subsided now but caused agony while it was raging, killing millions and leaving a million others with symptoms of long-Covid. But are we ready to face such pandemics again? A French virologist has raised concerns over his discovery of viruses frozen thousands of years ago, but remain alive. He said that those frozen viruses might re-emerge to threaten humanity. If it happens, it will be because of global warming due to the result of climate change. Virologist Jean-Michel Claverie found viruses frozen for as long as 50,000 years in places such as the Siberian permafrost which remain infectious. Also read: 2.2 billion people in India, Pak to face deadly heat waves if global temperatures rise by 2 degrees Bloomberg reported on Monday (Oct 9) that in an interview, at his laboratory in the Luminy campus of Aix-Marseille University, France, Claverie said: "With climate change, we are used to thinking of dangers coming from the south." He referred to the spread of vector-borne diseases from warmer tropical regions. He added, "Now, we realise there might be some danger coming from the north as the permafrost thaws and frees microbes, bacteria and viruses." Scientists fear that the Arctic could be ice-free in summers by the 2030s amid climate change as the planet is already 1.2 degrees Celsius warmer than pre-industrial levels. Also read: The Amazon may still have thousands of ancient structures beneath it Global average temperatures from January to September were 1.4 degrees Celsius higher than 1850-1900, which is almost breaching the 1.5C warming goal of the 2015 Paris Agreement, the Copernicus Climate Change Service (C3S) said in a report. That threshold was the more ambitious target of the accord and is seen as essential to avoiding the most catastrophic consequences of climate change. The January-September average global temperature was 0.05C higher than the same nine-month period in 2016, the warmest year recorded so far. The El Nino phenomenon, which warms waters in the southern Pacific and stokes hotter weather beyond, is likely to see 2023 becoming the hottest year on record in the next three months. Claverie's documentation of viruses raised concerns that a rise in global temperature will release dormant pathogens, which are a lesser explored danger. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Will thawing Siberian permafrost bring ancient outbreaks back to life?

Kerala's government has released price rates at which people can hire cops, police dogs, security equipments and even an entire police station. Some officials have heavily criticised the order by citing security concerns. Will there be any takers for the new scheme? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Kerala allows people to rent cops and police stations

There is a new virus in India that is sending health officials into a frenzy in the southern states of the country. Authorities in India are scrambling to contain a rare outbreak of Nipah, a virus spread from animals to humans that causes deadly fever and has a high mortality rate. So which are the affected regions, will the virus spread, what's the transmission rate and what does the population need to do to stay safe or virus free. WION's Eric Njoka talks to dr. Vivek Nangia , chief of pulmonology at Max hospital, Saket for more perspective.

Nipah Virus: Indian govt scrambles to contain spread | Live Discussion

Alarms are ringing in India over yet another deadly virus. The southern state of Kerala has reported four cases of the Nipah virus out of which two succumb to the infection. Now Nipah is a zoonotic virus which means it is transmitted to people from animals. It mainly affects animals such as bats, pigs, dogs and horses. Though the infection does not spread as quickly as COVID-19 the case fatality rate or the proportion of deaths among those who test positive is very high as per the World Health Organization.

Nipah Outbreak: Kerala govt strengthen measures to stop the spread of virus

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19. The lineage is named BA.2.86. It has reportedly been detected in the United States, Israel as well as in Denmark. The CDC has said this on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

"As we learn more about BA.2.86, CDC's advice on protecting yourself from COVID-19 remains the same," the agency said.

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CDC is tracking a new lineage of the virus that causes COVID-19. This lineage is named BA.2.86, and has been detected in the United States, Denmark and Israel. CDC is gathering more information and will share more about this lineage as we learn it.
— CDC (@CDCgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov/status/1692326710262304890?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Earlier on Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a post on X that it was considering BA.2.86 as a "variant under monitoring". It said it was monitoring it due to large number of mutations it carries. The agency said further that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries.

The new lineage, which has 36 mutations from the currently-dominant XBB.1.5 COVID variant "harkens back to an earlier branch" of the virus, explained Dr. S. Wesley Long, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist. Dr Long was quoted by Reuters.

He said it remains to be seen whether BA.2.86 will be able to out-compete other strains of the virus or have any advantage in escaping immune responses from prior infection or vaccination.

Reuters quoted \virologist Jesse Bloom, who said that early analysis indicated that the new variant "will have equal or greater escape than XBB.1.5 from antibodies elicited by pre-Omicron and first-generation Omicron variants."

Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 is the strain that's targetted by vaccines in upcoming Covid booster shots.

Bloom's slides note that the most likely scenario is that BA.2.86 is less transmissible than current dominant variants, so never spreads widely, but more sequencing data is needed.

"My biggest concern would be that it could cause a bigger spike in cases than what we have seen in recent waves," Dr. Long said. "The boosters will still help you fight off COVID in general."

 
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US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19.

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Thursday (August 17) that it was keeping an eye on a new, highly mutated lineage of virus that causes COVID-19. The lineage is named BA.2.86. It has reportedly been detected in the United States, Israel as well as in Denmark. The CDC has said this on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). "As we learn more about BA.2.86, CDC's advice on protecting yourself from COVID-19 remains the same," the agency said. CDC is tracking a new lineage of the virus that causes COVID-19. This lineage is named BA.2.86, and has been detected in the United States, Denmark and Israel. CDC is gathering more information and will share more about this lineage as we learn it. — CDC (@CDCgov) August 18, 2023 × Earlier on Thursday, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a post on X that it was considering BA.2.86 as a "variant under monitoring". It said it was monitoring it due to large number of mutations it carries. The agency said further that only a few sequences of the variant have been reported from a handful of countries. The new lineage, which has 36 mutations from the currently-dominant XBB.1.5 COVID variant "harkens back to an earlier branch" of the virus, explained Dr. S. Wesley Long, medical director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist. Dr Long was quoted by Reuters. He said it remains to be seen whether BA.2.86 will be able to out-compete other strains of the virus or have any advantage in escaping immune responses from prior infection or vaccination. Reuters quoted \virologist Jesse Bloom, who said that early analysis indicated that the new variant "will have equal or greater escape than XBB.1.5 from antibodies elicited by pre-Omicron and first-generation Omicron variants." Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 is the strain that's targetted by vaccines in upcoming Covid booster shots. Bloom's slides note that the most likely scenario is that BA.2.86 is less transmissible than current dominant variants, so never spreads widely, but more sequencing data is needed. "My biggest concern would be that it could cause a bigger spike in cases than what we have seen in recent waves," Dr. Long said. "The boosters will still help you fight off COVID in general." You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: CDC keeps eye on new lineage of virus that causes Covid

Countries around the world are recording a rise in Wuhan virus cases. In the US, Wuhan virus hospitalisations are on a rise, so are no. of people testing positive after a visiting to the emergency room. The UK and Japan too have reported rise in cases. Should you be worried? Is your vaccine still effective?

Gravitas: The Wuhan virus is back. What should you do?

Viruses were always a thing of fascination. The normally 'dead' microbes appear instantly to be 'living' when they find a host cell to attack. Even a casual reader of the news knows a bit about viruses.

This was some years ago.

Now, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, the entire world knows what havoc can these microbes cause.&nbsp;

While hoping that the world doesn't see another pandemic, it sounds like a good idea to keep an eye on viruses. A research paper is making news because it says that researchers have found some 'gigantic' viruses in just a few hundred-gram of soil.

This research paper is available on pre-print server bioArxiv.

Sciencealert reported that the researchers have found viruses measuring 635 nanometres. For comparison, viruses that usually create problems for humans are usually 50-140 nm wide.

In their research paper, the scientists have said that they were 'quite confident' that what they found were viruses and not material discarded from their cells by microbes. This is because, the shell, or Capsids as they are called, have distinctive shapes.

The soil sample was collected in Harvard Forest near Boston. The sample was then analysed at the famous Max Planck Institute in Germany.

"Transmission electron microscopy … revealed an astounding diversity of virus-like particles," write the researchers, as quoted by Scienealert.

"Amazingly, we found that a few hundred grams of forest soil contained a greater diversity… than… all hitherto isolated giant viruses combined."

"This fascinating window into the complex world of soil viruses leaves little doubt that the high genetic diversity of giant viruses is matched by diverse and previously unimaginable particle structures, whose origins and functions remain to be studied," writes microbiologist Matthias Fischer, electron microscopist Ulrike Mersdorf, and biologist Jeffrey Blanchard.

So does this mean we are moving towards another pandemic? Well, we should thank the scientific community for being watchful on that count.

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Viruses were always a thing of fascination. The normally 'dead' microbes appear instantly to be 'living' when they find a host cell to attack. Even a casual reader of the news knows a bit about viruses.

Viruses were always a thing of fascination. The normally 'dead' microbes appear instantly to be 'living' when they find a host cell to attack. Even a casual reader of the news knows a bit about viruses. This was some years ago. Now, thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, the entire world knows what havoc can these microbes cause. While hoping that the world doesn't see another pandemic, it sounds like a good idea to keep an eye on viruses. A research paper is making news because it says that researchers have found some 'gigantic' viruses in just a few hundred-gram of soil. This research paper is available on pre-print server bioArxiv. Sciencealert reported that the researchers have found viruses measuring 635 nanometres. For comparison, viruses that usually create problems for humans are usually 50-140 nm wide. In their research paper, the scientists have said that they were 'quite confident' that what they found were viruses and not material discarded from their cells by microbes. This is because, the shell, or Capsids as they are called, have distinctive shapes. The soil sample was collected in Harvard Forest near Boston. The sample was then analysed at the famous Max Planck Institute in Germany. "Transmission electron microscopy … revealed an astounding diversity of virus-like particles," write the researchers, as quoted by Scienealert. "Amazingly, we found that a few hundred grams of forest soil contained a greater diversity… than… all hitherto isolated giant viruses combined." "This fascinating window into the complex world of soil viruses leaves little doubt that the high genetic diversity of giant viruses is matched by diverse and previously unimaginable particle structures, whose origins and functions remain to be studied," writes microbiologist Matthias Fischer, electron microscopist Ulrike Mersdorf, and biologist Jeffrey Blanchard. So does this mean we are moving towards another pandemic? Well, we should thank the scientific community for being watchful on that count. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Scientists find some 'gigantic' viruses in soil samples

Amid heavy rainfall in Delhi and nearby areas over the past few weeks, multiple cases of conjunctivitis are being reported across many regions in India. Watch this to know more.

Conjunctivitis cases on the rise in India: What's causing the spike?

A researcher from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chao Shao, has made claims about the origins of the coronavirus and has linked them to plans for developing a highly contagious virus as a bioweapon.

In an exclusive interview&nbsp;with Jennifer Zeng, a member of the International Press Association, who provides first-hand information and unique insights about China and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the researcher Chao Shao revealed that his colleagues were given four variants of the virus to determine which one would spread most effectively, the ANI report said.&nbsp;He referred to the coronavirus as a "bioweapon."

Chao Shao shared an anecdote about his colleague, Shan Chao, who confessed that their superior provided them with four <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fraudsters-make-off-with-200-billion-from-covid-relief-programs-says-us-watchdog-609559">coronavirus</a> strains for testing. Their task was to identify the strain with the greatest ability to infect various species, including humans. These revelations highlight the alleged intention to create a highly contagious virus.

<h2>Suspicious activities during the 2019 military world games</h2>

During the 2019 Military World Games held in Wuhan, several of Chao Shao's colleagues mysteriously disappeared. It was later revealed that they were sent to hotels accommodating athletes from different countries to "check the health or hygiene conditions." Chao Shao became suspicious, as such tasks did not require virologists. He suspected their involvement in spreading the virus intentionally.

Also watch |&nbsp;&nbsp;WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away'

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<h2>Unusual assignments in Xinjiang</h2>

Chao Shao disclosed another concerning assignment in April 2020 when he was sent to Xinjiang to assess the health status of Uyghurs detained in re-education camps. Expressing scepticism, he questioned the need for a virologist to conduct health checks, suggesting alternative motives. His implication raises suspicions of either virus dissemination or observation of its impact on humans.

Chao Shao's revelations spanned from March to April 2020, providing a glimpse into the broader picture surrounding the origins of coronavirus. These startling claims shed light on potential activities that could have contributed to the pandemic's outbreak.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-chinese-scientist-says-dont-rule-out-covid-lab-leak-theory-598433">Top Chinese scientist says don't rule out Covid lab leak theory</a>

<h2>US intelligence unable to confirm lab-related infections</h2>

A recently released declassified report from US intelligence agencies failed to definitively confirm whether researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, who fell ill in 2019, were infected with the COVID-19 causing coronavirus. The report also mentioned research conducted by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prominent-chinese-financial-journalist-banned-from-social-media-for-speaking-about-economic-woes-unemployment-609275">Chinese</a> People's Liberation Army at the lab, but it did not establish a direct link between their work and the pandemic.

The release of the intelligence report does little to settle the contentious debate surrounding the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. With partisan clashes and ongoing investigations, the question of how the pandemic started remains a topic of heated discussion. Chao Shao's claims, while significant, require further scrutiny and investigation to establish the full truth about the origins and intentions behind the virus's creation.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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A researcher from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chao Shao, has made claims about the origins of the coronavirus and has linked them to plans for developing a highly contagious virus as a bioweapon.

A researcher from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chao Shao, has made claims about the origins of the coronavirus and has linked them to plans for developing a highly contagious virus as a bioweapon. In an exclusive interview with Jennifer Zeng, a member of the International Press Association, who provides first-hand information and unique insights about China and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), the researcher Chao Shao revealed that his colleagues were given four variants of the virus to determine which one would spread most effectively, the ANI report said. He referred to the coronavirus as a "bioweapon." Chao Shao shared an anecdote about his colleague, Shan Chao, who confessed that their superior provided them with four coronavirus strains for testing. Their task was to identify the strain with the greatest ability to infect various species, including humans. These revelations highlight the alleged intention to create a highly contagious virus. Suspicious activities during the 2019 military world games During the 2019 Military World Games held in Wuhan, several of Chao Shao's colleagues mysteriously disappeared. It was later revealed that they were sent to hotels accommodating athletes from different countries to "check the health or hygiene conditions." Chao Shao became suspicious, as such tasks did not require virologists. He suspected their involvement in spreading the virus intentionally. Also watch | WHO warns Covid 'has not gone away' Unusual assignments in Xinjiang Chao Shao disclosed another concerning assignment in April 2020 when he was sent to Xinjiang to assess the health status of Uyghurs detained in re-education camps. Expressing scepticism, he questioned the need for a virologist to conduct health checks, suggesting alternative motives. His implication raises suspicions of either virus dissemination or observation of its impact on humans. Chao Shao's revelations spanned from March to April 2020, providing a glimpse into the broader picture surrounding the origins of coronavirus. These startling claims shed light on potential activities that could have contributed to the pandemic's outbreak. Also read | Top Chinese scientist says don't rule out Covid lab leak theory US intelligence unable to confirm lab-related infections A recently released declassified report from US intelligence agencies failed to definitively confirm whether researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, who fell ill in 2019, were infected with the COVID-19 causing coronavirus. The report also mentioned research conducted by the Chinese People's Liberation Army at the lab, but it did not establish a direct link between their work and the pandemic. The release of the intelligence report does little to settle the contentious debate surrounding the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. With partisan clashes and ongoing investigations, the question of how the pandemic started remains a topic of heated discussion. Chao Shao's claims, while significant, require further scrutiny and investigation to establish the full truth about the origins and intentions behind the virus's creation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

COVID-19 was engineered as ‘bioweapon’ to purposely infect people, claims Wuhan researcher

Wuhan virus has often been used as a synonym for Covid-19. As the entire world & many of the reports claimed the leak of the virus from China's Wuhan Laboratory. But many kinds of research were conducted on Coronavirus before the outbreak. An independent watchdog agency found that U.S. taxpayer funds flowed to Chinese entities for a research.

Did US taxpayers fund $2M worth of research in Wuhan before the COVID-19 outbreak?

A report published on Tuesday (June 13)&nbsp;revealed that a big new trial of the chikungunya vaccine candidate from French-Austrian pharmaceutical company Valneva had shown promising&nbsp;results. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that periodically breaks out throughout the world.

Even though the trial was conducted on participants in the United States, where the disease is incredibly uncommon, experts said additional research was required despite the positive outcomes in the battle against Chikungunya, reported AFP.&nbsp;

The virus results in fever and at times incapacitating joint pain, although it seldom results in death. Neither vaccinations nor treatments are presently available for the virus.

After submitting an application for clearance in the US and Canada, Valneva claims that their vaccine candidate, known as VLA1553, is the first to be evaluated by health authorities.

The new randomised, placebo-controlled phase three experiment sought to determine how frequently the live-attenuated vaccine, which employs a weakened version of the virus, elicited an immune response.

According to research that was published in the journal The Lancet, 263 out of a subset of 266 patients who received the vaccination -- or 99 per cent -- had antibodies that could neutralise the chikungunya virus.

The single-shot vaccination was declared "generally safe" with adverse effects that were comparable to previous vaccines in a larger experiment involving 4,100 healthy individuals.

The study found that just two individuals experienced major adverse reactions related to the immunisation, and both made full recovery.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/majority-early-stage-breast-cancer-patients-to-be-long-term-survivors-study-603905">Majority early-stage breast cancer patients to be long-term survivors: Study</a>

<h2>'Crucial' trials</h2>

The study's principal author and clinical strategy manager for Valneva, Martina Schneider, characterised the findings as "promising".

"This could be the first chikungunya vaccine available for people living in endemic regions, as well as for travellers to endemic areas or areas at risk for an upcoming outbreak," she said in a statement.

Public health professionals are concerned that chikungunya might pose a threat to a pandemic in the future as climate change drives the insects that transmit it into new areas.

An expert in infectious diseases at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre in the US named Kathryn Stephenson called the new study "good news for chikungunya virus pandemic preparedness".

Also watch | Gravitas | Study: Yoga cuts the risk of Cancer spreading in the body

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She said, "However, the vaccine might be less effective in areas with a built-up immunity to chikungunya." This is possible with such live-attenuated doses.

According to the World Health Organisation, more than 110 nations have reported cases of chikungunya since it was first discovered in Tanzania in 1952.

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A report published on Tuesday (June 13) revealed that a big new trial of the chikungunya vaccine candidate from French-Austrian pharmaceutical company Valneva had shown promising results.

A report published on Tuesday (June 13) revealed that a big new trial of the chikungunya vaccine candidate from French-Austrian pharmaceutical company Valneva had shown promising results. Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that periodically breaks out throughout the world. Even though the trial was conducted on participants in the United States, where the disease is incredibly uncommon, experts said additional research was required despite the positive outcomes in the battle against Chikungunya, reported AFP. The virus results in fever and at times incapacitating joint pain, although it seldom results in death. Neither vaccinations nor treatments are presently available for the virus. After submitting an application for clearance in the US and Canada, Valneva claims that their vaccine candidate, known as VLA1553, is the first to be evaluated by health authorities. The new randomised, placebo-controlled phase three experiment sought to determine how frequently the live-attenuated vaccine, which employs a weakened version of the virus, elicited an immune response. According to research that was published in the journal The Lancet, 263 out of a subset of 266 patients who received the vaccination -- or 99 per cent -- had antibodies that could neutralise the chikungunya virus. The single-shot vaccination was declared "generally safe" with adverse effects that were comparable to previous vaccines in a larger experiment involving 4,100 healthy individuals. The study found that just two individuals experienced major adverse reactions related to the immunisation, and both made full recovery. Also read | Majority early-stage breast cancer patients to be long-term survivors: Study 'Crucial' trials The study's principal author and clinical strategy manager for Valneva, Martina Schneider, characterised the findings as "promising". "This could be the first chikungunya vaccine available for people living in endemic regions, as well as for travellers to endemic areas or areas at risk for an upcoming outbreak," she said in a statement. Public health professionals are concerned that chikungunya might pose a threat to a pandemic in the future as climate change drives the insects that transmit it into new areas. An expert in infectious diseases at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre in the US named Kathryn Stephenson called the new study "good news for chikungunya virus pandemic preparedness". Also watch | Gravitas | Study: Yoga cuts the risk of Cancer spreading in the body She said, "However, the vaccine might be less effective in areas with a built-up immunity to chikungunya." This is possible with such live-attenuated doses. According to the World Health Organisation, more than 110 nations have reported cases of chikungunya since it was first discovered in Tanzania in 1952. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

First-ever, single-shot Chikungunya vaccine shows positive results: Study

Over 175 people reported feeling down with norovirus during a recent Celebrity Summit cruise to Bermuda, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. The outbreak, which spread on the voyage from May 15 to 25, struck 152 of the 2,144 passengers on board and 25 crew members, according to the CDC.&nbsp;

Those who felt sick&nbsp;suffered symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and headaches, reported the New York Post.&nbsp;

<h2>Cruise's&nbsp;response to the outbreak</h2>

The CDC said that in response to the outbreak, the Summit’s crew “Increased cleaning and disinfection procedures according to the ship’s outbreak prevention and response plan” and “Notified current guests of the situation onboard and encouraged illness reporting and good hand hygiene".

Additionally, it&nbsp;“Collected and sent stool specimens from gastrointestinal illness cases to the CDC laboratory".

A Celebrity Cruises spokesperson told FOX Business in a statement on Tuesday (June 6) that “the health and safety of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority".

“To maintain the highest levels of health onboard our ships, we implement rigorous safety and cleaning procedures, many far exceeding public health guidelines. Combined, these efforts allow us to maintain some of the lowest levels of community spread.”&nbsp;the spokesperson added.

The Summit’s round-trip journey, according to the website CruiseMapper, left Bayonne, New Jersey, before making stops in Bermuda, Charleston, South Carolina, Newport, Rhode Island, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/multiple-cases-norovirus-found-in-indias-kerala-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-zoonotic-disease-555273">Multiple cases of norovirus found in India’s Kerala. Here’s all you need to know about the zoonotic disease</a>

<h2>Other cruise ships that reported cases of norovirus</h2>

In the month of&nbsp;March, norovirus outbreaks were reported on Celebrity’s Equinox and Constellation ships.&nbsp;

In the Equinox outbreak, 122 of its 2,579 passengers and 14 crew members reported experiencing “vomiting and diarrhoea” during a voyage from March 9 to 18, according to the CDC.&nbsp;

That ship departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and made halts&nbsp;in the Cayman Islands, Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire.&nbsp;

In the Constellation outbreak, 87 of its 2,062 passengers and nine crew members experienced the same norovirus symptoms during a voyage from March 6 to 17.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Ukrainians face homelessness, disease as floodwaters crest from destroyed dam

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The CDC on its official website that norovirus outbreaks can happen anytime, but occur “most often from November to April".

“Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhoea and foodborne illness in the United States. People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads very easily and quickly,”&nbsp;it adds.&nbsp;

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Over 175 people reported feeling down with norovirus during a recent Celebrity Summit cruise to Bermuda, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said.

Over 175 people reported feeling down with norovirus during a recent Celebrity Summit cruise to Bermuda, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. The outbreak, which spread on the voyage from May 15 to 25, struck 152 of the 2,144 passengers on board and 25 crew members, according to the CDC. Those who felt sick suffered symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, and headaches, reported the New York Post. Cruise's response to the outbreak The CDC said that in response to the outbreak, the Summit’s crew “Increased cleaning and disinfection procedures according to the ship’s outbreak prevention and response plan” and “Notified current guests of the situation onboard and encouraged illness reporting and good hand hygiene". Additionally, it “Collected and sent stool specimens from gastrointestinal illness cases to the CDC laboratory". A Celebrity Cruises spokesperson told FOX Business in a statement on Tuesday (June 6) that “the health and safety of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority". “To maintain the highest levels of health onboard our ships, we implement rigorous safety and cleaning procedures, many far exceeding public health guidelines. Combined, these efforts allow us to maintain some of the lowest levels of community spread.” the spokesperson added. The Summit’s round-trip journey, according to the website CruiseMapper, left Bayonne, New Jersey, before making stops in Bermuda, Charleston, South Carolina, Newport, Rhode Island, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Also read | Multiple cases of norovirus found in India’s Kerala. Here’s all you need to know about the zoonotic disease Other cruise ships that reported cases of norovirus In the month of March, norovirus outbreaks were reported on Celebrity’s Equinox and Constellation ships. In the Equinox outbreak, 122 of its 2,579 passengers and 14 crew members reported experiencing “vomiting and diarrhoea” during a voyage from March 9 to 18, according to the CDC. That ship departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and made halts in the Cayman Islands, Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire. In the Constellation outbreak, 87 of its 2,062 passengers and nine crew members experienced the same norovirus symptoms during a voyage from March 6 to 17. Also watch | Ukrainians face homelessness, disease as floodwaters crest from destroyed dam The CDC on its official website that norovirus outbreaks can happen anytime, but occur “most often from November to April". “Norovirus is the leading cause of vomiting and diarrhoea and foodborne illness in the United States. People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads very easily and quickly,” it adds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Norovirus outbreak on celebrity ship: More than 175 down with symptoms, cruise implements rigorous measures

World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year.

A total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable, were recorded in the outbreak of haemorrhagic fever between 16 March to 30 April 2023, as per WHO. Among the confirmed cases, three had recovered. The virus had claimed the lives of six in the East African country.

The cases were reported from the Bukoba district, Kagera region.&nbsp;

Tanzania declared the end of the deadly virus outbreak after the last confirmed case of Marburg in the country tested negative on April 19, setting off the mandatory 42-day countdown to make the announcement, said WHO. &nbsp;

This was the first such outbreak in the country with a population of almost 62 million.

The Marburg virus is an extremely dangerous microbe that causes severe fever, which is often accompanied by organ failure and bleeding. This microbe is a part of the filoviridae family which also includes Ebola.&nbsp;

<h2>Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks</h2>

The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

<h2>Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus</h2>

Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. The contagion can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. The reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas.

<h2>Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness</h2>

So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual.

(With inputs from agencies)

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World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year.

World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year. A total of nine cases, out of which eight were confirmed and one was probable, were recorded in the outbreak of haemorrhagic fever between 16 March to 30 April 2023, as per WHO. Among the confirmed cases, three had recovered. The virus had claimed the lives of six in the East African country. The cases were reported from the Bukoba district, Kagera region. Tanzania declared the end of the deadly virus outbreak after the last confirmed case of Marburg in the country tested negative on April 19, setting off the mandatory 42-day countdown to make the announcement, said WHO. This was the first such outbreak in the country with a population of almost 62 million. The Marburg virus is an extremely dangerous microbe that causes severe fever, which is often accompanied by organ failure and bleeding. This microbe is a part of the filoviridae family which also includes Ebola. Marburg virus origin and earlier outbreaks The uncommon virus was first discovered in 1967 after it simultaneously caused disease outbreaks in laboratories in Marburg, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. Seven people had died while conducting research on monkeys. Previous Marburg virus outbreaks and isolated cases have been reported in different countries of Africa, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Two Marburg deaths were reported in Ghana in July 2022, along with the first cases in West Africa. In September, the outbreak was deemed to be over by the authorities. There have been past outbreaks and isolated cases in other countries of Africa as well, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus is possible through contact with blood or other bodily fluids. The contagion can spread in animals when they come in close proximity. The African fruit bat is considered the natural host of the Marburg virus disease, which carries it but doesn’t fall sick from it. The reason why the government of Equatorial Guinea has implemented lockdown and quarantine measures in the affected areas. Treatment and cure of Ebola-like sickness So far, no vaccines or anti-viral treatments have been approved to treat the Marburg virus infections. However, the World Health Organization says that rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids results in increased chances of survival of an infected individual. (With inputs from agencies)

Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO

A new virus is picking up the steam. Should it be considered as a new threat? While the cases of COVID & RSV are falling, another respiratory virus called HMPV is spreading. In early March, around 20% of antigen tests & nearly 11% of PCR tests for HMPV were positive in the US. Cases of human metapneumovirus spiked this spring.

What is HMPV respiratory virus that is wreaking havoc in the US?

Covid-19 cases are rising once again. The cases are proliferating in the epicentre of the virus. The current wave of Covid-19 infections in China could be as high as 65 million cases a week. Experts, however, have told that the current surge is 'unlikely' to impact India. As the country has already been exposed to the Omicron subvariant causing the surge.

Why India need not worry about China’s recent COVID surge

India is facing a new threat. Some scientists view India's Kerala as a ‘global hotspot’ for the potential emergence of a new coronavirus. Another virus too emerged here in 2018, called the Nipah virus. The virus is again finding new ways to enter in the human body.

How a bat virus from India's Kerala found new ways to infect people

The Indonesian authorities on Tuesday confirmed that the pigs supplied to Singapore from a farm were infected with the African swine fever (ASF) virus. The pig samples from the farm on Pulab Bulan in the Riau Islands province were tested,&nbsp;which make&nbsp;up for about 15 per cent of Singapore's&nbsp;total pork supply.

Honismandri, a veterinary authority official at the Riau Islands province, revealed that a new strain of virus might have infected the pigs as the symptoms varied from previous cases found in North Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia.&nbsp;

“They did not have diarrhoea or experience bleeding. The pigs might have been infected by migrating boars or crows from other islands nearby,"&nbsp;Honismandri was quoted as saying by The Straits Times.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-canadian-invasive-super-pigs-are-threatening-flora-and-fauna-in-the-us-know-everything-565033">ALSO READ |&nbsp;How Canadian invasive 'super pigs' are threatening flora and fauna in the US? Know everything</a>

Honismandri added that the farm&nbsp;had been shut and all live pigs and fresh pork shipments from the island had been suspended.&nbsp;Notably, Singapore Food Agency (SFA)&nbsp;already stopped the import of pigs last month from the island.&nbsp;

"Due to the current situation, there will be temporary disruptions to the supply of freshly slaughtered pork from April 23 onwards," the SFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

"SFA is working closely with the abattoir to sanitise the premises and surrounding environment after the slaughter of pigs that are currently at the abattoir has been completed, as well as to maintain the biosecurity measures at the abattoir."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/african-swine-fever-threatens-hungarian-mangalica-pig-367887">WATCH |&nbsp;African swine fever threatens Hungarian Mangalica pig</a>

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<h2>What is&nbsp;African swine fever?</h2>

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly virulent and contagious disease in pigs whose mortality rate can reach 100 per cent. However, it does not infect humans.&nbsp;

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has stated that ASF is quietly becoming a&nbsp;major crisis for the pork industry in recent years. There is no effective vaccine for the disease and it&nbsp;not only affects the animal's health&nbsp;but also has a&nbsp;detrimental impact on biodiversity

"The virus is highly resistant in the environment, meaning that it can survive on clothes, boots, wheels, and other materials. It can also survive in various pork products, such as ham, sausages or bacon," the WOAH has stated in its advisory.&nbsp;

The disease has reached multiple countries across Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific, affecting both domestic and wild pigs.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Indonesian authorities on Tuesday confirmed that the pigs supplied to Singapore from a farm were infected with the African swine fever (ASF) virus. The pig samples from the farm on Pulab Bulan in the Riau Islands province were tested, which make up for about 15 per cent of Singapore's total pork supply.

The Indonesian authorities on Tuesday confirmed that the pigs supplied to Singapore from a farm were infected with the African swine fever (ASF) virus. The pig samples from the farm on Pulab Bulan in the Riau Islands province were tested, which make up for about 15 per cent of Singapore's total pork supply. Honismandri, a veterinary authority official at the Riau Islands province, revealed that a new strain of virus might have infected the pigs as the symptoms varied from previous cases found in North Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia. “They did not have diarrhoea or experience bleeding. The pigs might have been infected by migrating boars or crows from other islands nearby," Honismandri was quoted as saying by The Straits Times. ALSO READ | How Canadian invasive 'super pigs' are threatening flora and fauna in the US? Know everything Honismandri added that the farm had been shut and all live pigs and fresh pork shipments from the island had been suspended. Notably, Singapore Food Agency (SFA) already stopped the import of pigs last month from the island. "Due to the current situation, there will be temporary disruptions to the supply of freshly slaughtered pork from April 23 onwards," the SFA said in a statement. "SFA is working closely with the abattoir to sanitise the premises and surrounding environment after the slaughter of pigs that are currently at the abattoir has been completed, as well as to maintain the biosecurity measures at the abattoir." WATCH | African swine fever threatens Hungarian Mangalica pig × What is African swine fever? African swine fever (ASF) is a highly virulent and contagious disease in pigs whose mortality rate can reach 100 per cent. However, it does not infect humans. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has stated that ASF is quietly becoming a major crisis for the pork industry in recent years. There is no effective vaccine for the disease and it not only affects the animal's health but also has a detrimental impact on biodiversity "The virus is highly resistant in the environment, meaning that it can survive on clothes, boots, wheels, and other materials. It can also survive in various pork products, such as ham, sausages or bacon," the WOAH has stated in its advisory. The disease has reached multiple countries across Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Pacific, affecting both domestic and wild pigs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pigs exported to Singapore from Indonesia confirmed to have African swine fever virus

A 36-year-old Indian-origin Malaysian man has been&nbsp;sentenced to 12 months in jail for allegedly smuggling 26 puppies and a kitten&nbsp;in laundry bags from Malaysia to Singapore, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI).

The National Parks Board (NParks), which described the case as "one of the most serious cases of animal smuggling to date," claimed that one puppy was discovered dead and that 18 other canines died from canine parvovirus infection,&nbsp;Channel News Asia reported.&nbsp;

As per reports,&nbsp;Gobysuwaran Paraman Sivan was given a prison term for bringing in pets without a permit and inflicting unnecessary distress on the animals.

On October 18, 2022, he smuggled 26 puppies and a kitten&nbsp;into Malaysia aboard a lorry.

According to NParks, immigration police stopped a truck with a Malaysian licence at Tuas Checkpoint, on the Singapore side of the bridge connecting southern Peninsular Malaysia, and found the 27 pets stashed in various truck compartments.

Officers discovered some animals hidden in the vehicle's overhead compartment, inside of laundry bags.

As&nbsp;per the&nbsp;findings of the investigation, there were more&nbsp;animals crammed into plastic containers behind the driver's and passenger's seats.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Chilean Dolphins face threats from avian flu &amp; human activity

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"Had these puppies been sold, canine parvovirus might have spread to other dogs in the community," said NParks.

NParks and partner agencies have detected 19 cases of animal smuggling between October 2022 and March 2023.

<h2>Canine parvovirus: What is it and how does it spread?</h2>

All dogs are susceptible to the extremely contagious canine parvovirus, however puppies under four months old and unvaccinated canines are particularly at risk, as per the Aerican Veterinary Medical Association.&nbsp;

Dogs with canine parvovirus infection are frequently referred to as having "parvo." Direct contact between dogs as well as contact with contaminated environments, humans, or faeces (stool) are the two main ways in which the virus, which affects dogs' gastrointestinal tracts, spread. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extremely-rare-white-bengal-tiger-sextuplets-born-in-a-zoo-in-chinas-zhengzhou-585697">Extremely rare! White Bengal Tiger sextuplets born in China's Zhengzhou zoo</a>

Infected dog handlers' hands, clothing, food and water bowls, collars, and kennel floors can all get contaminated with the virus.&nbsp;

It can withstand the environment for extended periods of time and is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and dryness. When other dogs enter an area that is contaminated, even small quantities of a virus-carrying dog's faeces can spread the infection. The infection can easily spread from one location to another through dog hair or feet, contaminated cages, contaminated shoes, or other objects.

<h2>Signs of parvovirus</h2>

Lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and bloating, fever or low body temperature (hypothermia), vomiting, and severe, frequently bloody diarrhoea are some of the symptoms of parvovirus.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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A 36-year-old Indian-origin Malaysian man has been sentenced to 12 months in jail for allegedly smuggling 26 puppies and a kitten in laundry bags from Malaysia to Singapore, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI).

A 36-year-old Indian-origin Malaysian man has been sentenced to 12 months in jail for allegedly smuggling 26 puppies and a kitten in laundry bags from Malaysia to Singapore, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI). The National Parks Board (NParks), which described the case as "one of the most serious cases of animal smuggling to date," claimed that one puppy was discovered dead and that 18 other canines died from canine parvovirus infection, Channel News Asia reported. As per reports, Gobysuwaran Paraman Sivan was given a prison term for bringing in pets without a permit and inflicting unnecessary distress on the animals. On October 18, 2022, he smuggled 26 puppies and a kitten into Malaysia aboard a lorry. According to NParks, immigration police stopped a truck with a Malaysian licence at Tuas Checkpoint, on the Singapore side of the bridge connecting southern Peninsular Malaysia, and found the 27 pets stashed in various truck compartments. Officers discovered some animals hidden in the vehicle's overhead compartment, inside of laundry bags. As per the findings of the investigation, there were more animals crammed into plastic containers behind the driver's and passenger's seats. ALSO WATCH | Chilean Dolphins face threats from avian flu & human activity "Had these puppies been sold, canine parvovirus might have spread to other dogs in the community," said NParks. NParks and partner agencies have detected 19 cases of animal smuggling between October 2022 and March 2023. Canine parvovirus: What is it and how does it spread? All dogs are susceptible to the extremely contagious canine parvovirus, however puppies under four months old and unvaccinated canines are particularly at risk, as per the Aerican Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs with canine parvovirus infection are frequently referred to as having "parvo." Direct contact between dogs as well as contact with contaminated environments, humans, or faeces (stool) are the two main ways in which the virus, which affects dogs' gastrointestinal tracts, spread. ALSO READ | Extremely rare! White Bengal Tiger sextuplets born in China's Zhengzhou zoo Infected dog handlers' hands, clothing, food and water bowls, collars, and kennel floors can all get contaminated with the virus. It can withstand the environment for extended periods of time and is resistant to heat, cold, humidity, and dryness. When other dogs enter an area that is contaminated, even small quantities of a virus-carrying dog's faeces can spread the infection. The infection can easily spread from one location to another through dog hair or feet, contaminated cages, contaminated shoes, or other objects. Signs of parvovirus Lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and bloating, fever or low body temperature (hypothermia), vomiting, and severe, frequently bloody diarrhoea are some of the symptoms of parvovirus. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian-origin Malaysian sentenced for smuggling puppies, kitten to Singapore in laundry bags

There is reportedly a 27.5 per cent chance of a deadly pandemic like COVID-19 occurring in the next decade. This is likely to happen as viruses are emerging more frequently. Watch this to know more.

World has 28% risk of new Covid-like pandemic within 10 years: Study

A Chinese woman has become the first person to die from a type of bird flu that is rare in humans, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said, but the strain does not appear to spread between people. Watch this to know everything about this virus.

H3N8 bird flu: Everything you need to know about the virus

The first human case of bird flu has been discovered in Chile, the nation's health ministry announced on Wednesday.&nbsp;

According to a statement released by the ministry, the case was found in a 53-year-old man who had severe influenza symptoms but was otherwise stable, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The government is also looking into how the infection spread and who else came into contact with the patient.&nbsp;

Since late last year, Chile has only documented cases of the H5N1 bird flu in wild animals.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-h3n8-or-bird-flu-china-reports-first-case-of-2023-heres-all-you-need-to-know-576644">&nbsp;What is H3N8 or bird flu? China reports first case of 2023, here's all you need to know</a>

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Last week, Chilean authorities reported a bird flu outbreak at an industrial facility in the Maule region in the southern part of the country, reported Reuters.

"This finding was made after a complaint made to the Maule SAG (agriculture and livestock agency) about an increase in mortality on the farm of around 70 birds and another 60 that were symptomatic of the virus," the Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement.

The government halted poultry exports due to recent incidents in industrial farms. Although Brazil, the world's top exporter of chicken, has not been infected, industrial cases have been found in Argentina as well.

At least 14 Latin American nations have reported outbreaks of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-11-year-old-girl-dies-of-bird-flu-in-cambodia-first-death-since-2014-565223">11-year old girl dies in Cambodia’s first bird flu case since 2014</a>

Early this year, a 9-year-old girl in Ecuador became the first to be detected with bird flu. Irrespective low likelihood of human-to-human transmission, according to international health officials, human bird flu vaccines have been developed "just in case."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The first human case of bird flu has been discovered in Chile, the nation's health ministry announced on Wednesday. According to a statement released by the ministry, the case was found in a 53-year-old man who had severe influenza symptoms but was otherwise stable, reported Reuters.

The first human case of bird flu has been discovered in Chile, the nation's health ministry announced on Wednesday. According to a statement released by the ministry, the case was found in a 53-year-old man who had severe influenza symptoms but was otherwise stable, reported Reuters. The government is also looking into how the infection spread and who else came into contact with the patient. Since late last year, Chile has only documented cases of the H5N1 bird flu in wild animals. ALSO READ | What is H3N8 or bird flu? China reports first case of 2023, here's all you need to know ⚠️ BREAKING: Chile 🇨🇱 confirms a human case of bird flu. pic.twitter.com/wOB2INuJas — Infectious Disease Tracker (@HmpxvT) March 29, 2023 × Last week, Chilean authorities reported a bird flu outbreak at an industrial facility in the Maule region in the southern part of the country, reported Reuters. "This finding was made after a complaint made to the Maule SAG (agriculture and livestock agency) about an increase in mortality on the farm of around 70 birds and another 60 that were symptomatic of the virus," the Ministry of Agriculture said in a statement. The government halted poultry exports due to recent incidents in industrial farms. Although Brazil, the world's top exporter of chicken, has not been infected, industrial cases have been found in Argentina as well. At least 14 Latin American nations have reported outbreaks of the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza virus. ALSO READ | 11-year old girl dies in Cambodia’s first bird flu case since 2014 Early this year, a 9-year-old girl in Ecuador became the first to be detected with bird flu. Irrespective low likelihood of human-to-human transmission, according to international health officials, human bird flu vaccines have been developed "just in case." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chile confirms first human case of bird flu in 53-year-old man with severe influenza symptoms

A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid. According to the study, the virus can attack chromatin which is a structure where genetic materials in our cells are stored.&nbsp;

Studies have suggested that some viruses can hijack or change our chromatin, to reproduce in our cells but whether or how SARS-CoV-2 may affect our chromatin was previously unknown. “We found that many well-formed chromatin architectures of a normal cell become de-organised after infection,” said Wenbo Li, senior author of the study and associate professor at the United States-based University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, as per PTI.&nbsp;

He gave an example of one type of chromatin architecture termed A/B compartments that “can be analogous to the yin and yang portions of our chromatin.” However, after a person was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 they found that the yin and yang portions of the chromatin lose their “normal shapes and start to mix together,” said Li. Furthermore, not only can the shape but also the chemical composition of chromatin be altered by SARS-CoV-2, the study found.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/beethovens-locks-of-hair-reveal-a-long-hidden-family-secret-574979">DNA study of Beethoven’s hair reveals his ailments, long-hidden family history secret</a>

According to a scientist who was a part of the study, Xiaoyi Yuan, the changes in “chemical modifications of chromatin were known to exert long-term effects on gene expression and phenotypes”, reported PTI. Therefore, their research might provide an “unrealised new perspective to understand the viral impacts on host chromatin that can associate with long Covid,” Yuan added.&nbsp;

The mixing of chromatin might be the cause of some key genes like interleukin-6 to change, the study suggests. The interleukin-6 is a significant inflammation gene and this mixing and change can cause a cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients. A cytokine storm is a severe immune reaction where the body releases too many cytokines very quickly. While they play an important role in normal immune responses, a large amount released in the body at once can be harmful.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-suggests-high-caffeine-levels-my-reduce-risk-of-type-2-diabetes-572318">Study suggests high caffeine levels may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes</a>

“This study elucidated to us how SARS-CoV-2 can uniquely alter our chromatin to cause COVID-19 symptoms. Future work will focus on understanding the mechanisms of how SARS-CoV-2 can achieve this” said Li, as per PTI. Researchers also hope that these findings can pave the way for future research and understanding of the long-term effects of the virus.&nbsp; 
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A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid.

A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology found that people infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus might experience changes in their genome structure that could explain their immunity-related symptoms and risk of long Covid. According to the study, the virus can attack chromatin which is a structure where genetic materials in our cells are stored. Studies have suggested that some viruses can hijack or change our chromatin, to reproduce in our cells but whether or how SARS-CoV-2 may affect our chromatin was previously unknown. “We found that many well-formed chromatin architectures of a normal cell become de-organised after infection,” said Wenbo Li, senior author of the study and associate professor at the United States-based University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, as per PTI. He gave an example of one type of chromatin architecture termed A/B compartments that “can be analogous to the yin and yang portions of our chromatin.” However, after a person was infected with the SARS-CoV-2 they found that the yin and yang portions of the chromatin lose their “normal shapes and start to mix together,” said Li. Furthermore, not only can the shape but also the chemical composition of chromatin be altered by SARS-CoV-2, the study found. ALSO READ | DNA study of Beethoven’s hair reveals his ailments, long-hidden family history secret According to a scientist who was a part of the study, Xiaoyi Yuan, the changes in “chemical modifications of chromatin were known to exert long-term effects on gene expression and phenotypes”, reported PTI. Therefore, their research might provide an “unrealised new perspective to understand the viral impacts on host chromatin that can associate with long Covid,” Yuan added. The mixing of chromatin might be the cause of some key genes like interleukin-6 to change, the study suggests. The interleukin-6 is a significant inflammation gene and this mixing and change can cause a cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients. A cytokine storm is a severe immune reaction where the body releases too many cytokines very quickly. While they play an important role in normal immune responses, a large amount released in the body at once can be harmful. ALSO READ | Study suggests high caffeine levels may reduce risk of type 2 diabetes “This study elucidated to us how SARS-CoV-2 can uniquely alter our chromatin to cause COVID-19 symptoms. Future work will focus on understanding the mechanisms of how SARS-CoV-2 can achieve this” said Li, as per PTI. Researchers also hope that these findings can pave the way for future research and understanding of the long-term effects of the virus. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

SARS-CoV-2 virus can alter our DNA, lead to long Covid: Study

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