Microbiology & Infectious Diseases

A new global analysis reveals chikungunya virus is responsible for millions of infections annually across all continents, with chronic disease accounting for most of the health burden.

A broadly protective sarbecovirus vaccine could slow outbreaks, reduce deaths and give health systems critical time in future pandemics, new research suggests.

Researchers identify LRP8 as the essential receptor for tick-borne encephalitis virus in brain cells, offering new targets for antiviral therapy.

A Mali cohort study shows preterm birth elevates malaria infection risk in children, particularly in multigravid mothers without pregnancy malaria, suggesting targeted prevention and vaccination strategies.

A phase 2 trial in Gabon showed that the PfSPZ malaria vaccine is safe in children aged 1–12 years but failed to prevent Plasmodium falciparum infection.

Immune profiles after COVID-19 vaccination predict booster need, with rapid-decliners at higher risk of breakthrough infection.

Rare genetic variants affecting antiviral, inflammatory, and autophagy pathways may explain severe neurological complications from chickenpox in children.

A landmark trial combining novel therapies has produced the first signs of durable post-treatment HIV control, pointing to a new frontier in functional cure research.