The article discusses the potential link between herpes virus infections and Alzheimer's disease, noting that while L-lysine may help reduce herpes outbreaks, there is no conclusive evidence yet that it prevents Alzheimer's. Vaccination against shingles may lower Alzheimer's risk, but more research is needed. The article also emphasizes the importance of proper treatment for severe allergic reactions, warning against using over-the-counter alternatives like Primatene Mist for anaphylaxis.
Scientists have developed a genetically modified herpes simplex virus, RP1, which has shown promise in shrinking advanced melanoma tumors, including those deep inside the body, in a phase 1/2 clinical trial. The therapy, especially when combined with the immune drug nivolumab, has demonstrated significant tumor reduction in a substantial portion of patients, offering hope for more effective treatment options for melanoma, particularly in cases resistant to current therapies.
Kissing newborns can pose serious health risks due to their underdeveloped immune systems, making them vulnerable to infections like herpes and bacterial pathogens. These infections, which may be mild in adults, can be life-threatening for infants. Parents are advised to discourage visitors from kissing their babies, especially on the face, and to ensure good hygiene practices to minimize infection risks.
Dr. Karan Raj, an NHS surgeon, warns against kissing newborns due to their underdeveloped immune systems, which make them highly susceptible to serious infections like herpes and bacterial infections such as group B streptococci and E. coli. These infections, often mild in adults, can be life-threatening for infants. Parents are encouraged to ask visitors to avoid kissing their babies to prevent potential health risks. Safe practices include washing hands, avoiding face kisses, and staying away if unwell.
An Asian elephant at Houston Zoo has received the first mRNA vaccine against the deadly elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV), which is a leading cause of death among young Asian elephants in captivity. Developed by Dr. Paul Ling at Baylor College of Medicine, the vaccine aims to boost immunity in young elephants, similar to how Covid-19 vaccines work in humans. The trial vaccine was administered to Tess, a 40-year-old elephant, following a series of juvenile deaths in zoos worldwide. Researchers are monitoring Tess's health and plan to vaccinate more elephants if no side effects are observed.
A 37-year-old man in Hong Kong is in critical condition after being infected with the B virus from a wild monkey, highlighting the potential risks posed by viruses carried by animals. The B virus, also known as herpes virus B, belongs to the herpes family and has a mortality rate of 70% if not promptly treated. While most cases have involved laboratory workers, this incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by contact with wild animals carrying infectious diseases.
A study in Sweden found that exposure to the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) doubles the risk of developing dementia, independent of age and genetic factors. The presence of HSV-1 antibodies was associated with a higher likelihood of dementia, suggesting a potential link between viral infections and cognitive decline. Researchers are calling for further trials to investigate whether herpes treatment could help prevent or delay the onset of dementia, with hopes of advancing early-stage treatment and prevention of the disease.
Researchers in Massachusetts are testing an experimental therapy called CAN-3110, which uses a genetically modified herpes simplex virus to provoke an immune response against brain cancer cells. The treatment, injected into the tumor, aims to activate the patient's own immune cells to fight off the cancer. Initial results from a Phase I study showed that even patients with existing antibodies to herpes experienced an enhanced immune response. Further studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of CAN-3110, especially in patients without existing herpes antibodies.
