Devastating bird flu officially reaches Antarctica for the first time

It was only a matter of time, but highly pathogenic avian influence (HPAI) has officially found its way to bird populations in Antarctica, after dead migratory brown skua on Bird Island returned positive test results.Continue ReadingCategory: Biology, … Continue reading Devastating bird flu officially reaches Antarctica for the first time

Genetically engineered chickens could help slow spread of bird flu

The world may be quickly forgetting about COVID-19, but there are signs the next pandemic is already cooking up – bird flu. Scientists have now demonstrated that genetically engineering chickens can reduce their chances of catching and spreading the di… Continue reading Genetically engineered chickens could help slow spread of bird flu

“Strong” Phase 1/2 trial results for Moderna’s flu-COVID-19 combo jab

Moderna, one pharmaceutical company inextricably linked to the pandemic vaccination response, has announced it will take its new seasonal influenza and COVID-19 combination shot to Phase 3 trials after “strong” results in Phase 1/2 stages of testing. I… Continue reading “Strong” Phase 1/2 trial results for Moderna’s flu-COVID-19 combo jab

Catastrophic avian influenza reaches the Galapagos for the first time

Almost 200 years on from when Charles Darwin observed his Galapagos Islands finches, which became the emblems of his theory of evolution, birds in the region are again in the news for what many scientists warn could be the source of the next pandemic.C… Continue reading Catastrophic avian influenza reaches the Galapagos for the first time

Over-the-counter cold medications don’t work, FDA panel rules

Adding weight to the large body of scientific evidence showing that phenylephrine is as useless as a placebo for nasal congestion, a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory panel has unanimously declared common oral medications ineffective. It p… Continue reading Over-the-counter cold medications don’t work, FDA panel rules

Tricky survival tactics of the flu virus uncovered in new study

The influenza A virus is one of the most persistent and infectious bugs around the world. Researchers have just uncovered how it’s able to thrive by slicing and dicing genetic material inside our cells while keeping itself intact. The finding might ope… Continue reading Tricky survival tactics of the flu virus uncovered in new study

Needle-free vaccines one step closer as huge production plant opens

More than a decade in research and development, a state-of-the-art needle-free vaccine is imminent for commercial use as biotechnology company Vaxxas cuts the ribbon on a massive production plant and business headquarters in Brisbane, Australia.Continu… Continue reading Needle-free vaccines one step closer as huge production plant opens

Human trial of mRNA universal flu vaccine begins

It’s still very early days, but the race to develop the first safe and effective mRNA-based influenza vaccine is gathering momentum.Continue ReadingCategory: Medical, ScienceTags: Vaccines, RNA, Biotechnology, Influenza, Duke University, U.S. National … Continue reading Human trial of mRNA universal flu vaccine begins

Landmark 20-strain mRNA flu vaccine looks to prevent future pandemics

An incredible new study published in the journal Science demonstrates the potential for a single mRNA vaccine to provide protection from all 20 known influenza A and B virus subtypes. It’s hoped the vaccine, so far seen to be effective in preclinical a… Continue reading Landmark 20-strain mRNA flu vaccine looks to prevent future pandemics

How exposure to artificial butter flavor when sick may cause lung damage

New research indicates exposure to low levels of a flavoring chemical called diacetyl in combination with a mild case of influenza can cause serious lung damage. The findings, in mice, suggest those with occupational exposure to the chemical should be … Continue reading How exposure to artificial butter flavor when sick may cause lung damage