Hold the line: Fulfil the 2027 #EndTB commitments without shifting goalposts
Ending tuberculosis (TB) requires early and accurate diagnosis for every person tested. Experts warn that delaying the global shift from outdated microscopy to WHO-recommended molecular tests could leave millions undiagnosed and allow TB transmission to continue. With 2027 commitments already endorsed by world leaders, they urge faster action to ensure no one is missed
Latest from Infectious Diseases
The "Cicada" Variant: A Mutant Legacy Emerges from the Shadows
The "Cicada" variant (BA.3.2) marks a significant shift in the pandemic landscape of 2026, emerging as an "undead" lineage that evolved secretly from the 2022 BA.3 branch. With an unprecedented 70–75 mutations in its spike protein, it represents the largest genetic leap since the original Omicron, driving a high degree of immune escape against current vaccines and prior infections. While it remains a minority strain in the U.S. (under 1% of cases), it has been detected in at least 25 states primarily through wastewater surveillance, which has become the vital "early warning" system as clinical testing declines. This biological evolution coincides with a major policy pivot under HHS Secretary RFK Jr., where COVID-19 vaccines transitioned from emergency use to traditional marketing authorizations, narrowing official FDA approval to adults 65 and older or those at high risk. As the virus persists, 2026 data also reveals distinct Long COVID patterns, with women reporting higher rates of neurological symptoms like brain fog, while men and minority populations experience more frequent respiratory and cardiac complications.
Nipah Virus: An Evolving Global Health Threat and the Path to Preparedness
Introduction The Nipah virus (NiV) represents one of the most significant viral threats to global health secur
Tuberculosis: Causes, Prevention and Management
Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can also impact other parts of the body. Understanding the causes, prevention, and management of TB is essential for controlling its spread and reducing its im
Influenza: Causes, Prevention and Management
Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Influenza viruses are of different types (A, B, C) and are further classified into subtypes based on their surface antigens. Influenza is a significant public health concern, causing morbidity and mor
Zika virus: Causes, Prevention and Management
Zika virus is an emerging mosquito-borne viral infection that has caused serious public health concerns worldwide. The virus was first identified in 1947 in Uganda, but gained global attention during the outbreaks in 2015-2016, especially in Latin America and the Caribbean, where it was linked to s