Avian flu virus has been found in raw milk − a reminder of how pasteurization protects health

As the H5N1 avian flu virus continues to spread in poultry flocks and dairy cattle, consumers may worry about whether the U.S. milk supply is safe to drink. According to…

Airdropping vaccines to eliminate canine rabies in Texas – two scientists explain the decades of research behind its success

Rabies is a deadly disease. Without vaccination, a rabies infection is nearly 100% fatal once someone develops symptoms. Texas has experienced two rabies epidemics in animals since 1988: one involving…

Leprosy cases are rising in the US – what is the ancient disease and why is it spreading now?

The word “leprosy” conjures images of biblical plagues, but the disease is still with us today. Caused by infectious bacteria, some 200,000 new cases are reported each year, according to…

Rabies is an ancient, unpredictable and potentially fatal disease − two rabies researchers explain how to protect yourself

A feral kitten in Omaha, Nebraska, tested positive for rabies in November 2023. It died of the raccoon variant of the virus, which is typically found only in the Appalachian…