"50,000-Year-Old Herpes Virus Found in Neanderthal Bones"

Scientists have discovered 50,000-year-old viruses in Neanderthal bones, including adenovirus, herpesvirus, and papillomavirus, which still affect humans today. This groundbreaking research suggests that deadly infectious diseases carried by Homo sapiens may have contributed to the extinction of Neanderthals, challenging the long-held belief that superior cognitive abilities were the primary reason for Homo sapiens' dominance. The study highlights the profound impact of pathogens on human history and evolution.