Infectious Diseases

Penn researchers have shown that people born roughly before 1965 had higher levels of antibodies—proteins that bind to parts of the virus—which cross-react to the current strain of bird flu.

Researchers co-led by Jonathan Miner of the Perelman School of Medicine have identified a protein in cells that spurs the release of infection-fighting molecules.

Early childhood influence exposures can elicit immune responses that last a lifetime, according to Scott Hensley of the Perelman School of Medicine.

Aliza Simeone of the School of Veterinary Medicine says that most people who’ve been exposed to bird flu and have then become sick or tested positive had very close contact with infected poultry or cattle elsewhere in the country.

E. John Wherry of the Perelman School of Medicine says that relearning viral immunity can lead people to be especially prone to other infections right after measles.

According to a study by Ph.D. student Dazheng Zhang of the Perelman School of Medicine and colleagues, children and adolescents experienced increased risk for gastrointestinal symptoms and disorders after COVID-19 infections.

Louise Moncla of the School of Veterinary Medicine says that avian flu viruses are being spread far geographically because of wild migratory birds.

Paul Offit of the Perelman School of Medicine says that next season’s flu vaccines may not be ready in time or be the best match.