Latest news with #Norovirus
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
MAP: Boil water advisory issued for some WaterPro customers in Draper
DRAPER, Utah () — The Salt Lake County Health Department issued a boil water advisory for some WaterPro customers in Draper on Thursday around 6 p.m. WaterPro notified affected customers that there has been potential contamination to the drinking water system, outlined in the below. As a precaution, the Utah Division of Drinking Water issued a . WaterPro-Water-System-Potentially-Affected-AreaDownload WaterPro is one of two water utilities that serves Draper City, and customers served by the Draper City water company are not affected. According to WaterPro, the contamination came from a cross-connection between secondary and culinary water systems, allowing untreated water to enter the drinking water system. WaterPro is reportedly testing to determine bacteria levels in the water supply, and so far, chlorine levels observed have been normal. Residents and businesses in the affected area should boil tap water before using it or use bottled water. In order to properly boil water, it needs to be brought to a rolling boil for at least one minute and cooled before using it. Salt Lake County Health Department said that boiled or bottled water should be used for the following things until further notice: Drinking (pets and people) Making ice Brushing teeth Washing dishes Washing produce Bathing/showering Baby formula Food preparation Humidifiers, CPAP, and other medical devices Discard any stored water, drinks, and ice made from the water supply in the last 24 hours. Flush any humidifiers, CPAP, and other medical devices with boiled or bottled water. After the order is lifted, flush all water dispensers (including on refrigerators) and discard all ice made for 24 hours. According to the Salt Lake County Health Department, contaminated water can possibly expose you to: Bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella) Viruses (e.g., Norovirus, Hepatitis A) Parasites (e.g., Cryptosporidium) Chemical contaminants (e.g., fertilizers, pesticides) Drinking untreated water, or using it to bathe or brush teeth, can cause: Nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps or diarrhea Headache, fever or flu-like symptoms More severe illness in young children, older adults or those with weakened immune systems The Health Department urges anyone in the affected area who develops these symptoms to contact their health care provider. The full boil order is included below. WaterPro-Public-Notice-Potential-Water-ContaminationDownload Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Qatar Tribune
05-06-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
QU celebrates first PhD graduates of its Health Sciences programme
Tribune News Network Doha Qatar University (QU) has announced the graduation of the first two students from its PhD in Health Sciences programme, marking a significant milestone for QU Health and its commitment to advancing research aligned with Qatar's national health priorities. The PhD in Health Sciences, governed by the 'Health Sector Graduate Studies Office', offers two specialised tracks: Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research and Clinical and Population Health Research. This year's achievement highlights the graduation of one student from each track, signaling the program's growing impact on national and global health research. Dr. Jazeel Abdulmajeed is the first graduate of the Clinical and Population Health Research track. His research addressed the appropriate use of effect measures in clinical research, proposing improvements that enhance the interpretation and reliability of healthcare evidence, particularly in observational studies and meta-analyses. Dr. Abdulmajeed said, 'My PhD aimed to improve the methodological foundations of clinical research to ensure that health decisions are based on accurate and meaningful evidence. I am honoured to be the first graduate of this track and proud to contribute to the advancement of research excellence at QU.' Dr. Abdulmajeed was supervised by Prof. Suhail Doi, head of the Department of Population Medicine at the College of Medicine. Prof. Doi said, 'Dr. Abdulmajeed's research offers important methodological solutions that improve how we assess and apply healthcare data in real-world settings.' In parallel with his academic work, Dr. Abdulmajeed also contributes to the Business and Health Intelligence Department at the Primary Health Care Corporation and has served in various roles at the Ministry of Public Health. On her part, Nadin Younes, the first graduate of the Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research track, focused her doctoral work on improving disease diagnostics. Her research led to the development of rapid, cost-effective tools to detect Norovirus and Hepatitis E Virus — pathogens that pose a high risk in densely populated and resource-limited environments. 'I aimed to design accessible and affordable diagnostic tools that could support early detection and better outbreak control,' Younes explained. 'I'm thankful to my supervisor and the supportive research environment at QU Health that made this possible.' Supervised by Prof. Gheyath Nasrallah, professor of Immunology and Microbiology at the College of Health Sciences, her work resulted in the creation of a novel lateral flow assay for Norovirus, which is now undergoing regulatory review with support for potential commercialisation. A complementary test for Hepatitis E Virus is also nearing completion. 'Nadin's research addresses a pressing public health need and demonstrates the potential of applied biomedical innovation in Qatar,' said Prof. Nasrallah. Dr. Muhammad Abdul Hadi, coordinator of the Clinical and Population Health Research track, emphasised the broader importance of this achievement, 'This graduation signifies more than academic success — it reflects our programme's vision of developing researchers who are equipped to address complex health challenges. We are proud of our graduates for setting a strong precedent for future cohorts,' Abdul Hadi said. Dr. Asad Javaid, coordinator of the Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Research track, also praised the significance of this achievement, saying, 'The success of our first graduate is a powerful testament to the relevance and innovation embedded in our curriculum. This programme is designed to empower researchers to translate scientific discovery into practical solutions that address real-world health challenges. Nadin's achievement is just the beginning of the impact we aim to deliver—both in Qatar and beyond.' With this milestone, QU continues to expand its role as a leader in health research and innovation, contributing to the nation's long-term goals under Qatar National Vision 2030.
Business Wire
05-06-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
ImmunoPrecise Announces AI-Driven Breakthrough in Universal Dengue Vaccine Discovery
AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. (IPA) (NASDAQ:IPA) a leader in AI-driven biotherapeutics, announces discovery of a highly conserved epitope across all four dengue virus serotypes using its proprietary LENS ai ™ platform powered by their patented HYFT® technology. This discovery, made using several proprietary HYFT-based analyses, identifies a part of the virus (an epitope) that has remained unmutated across all four known virus serotypes, therefore potentially allowing an epitope-based vaccine to target and activate the immune system to eliminate the virus. This discovery marks a major milestone toward the development of a potential universal dengue vaccine and validates the Company's newly launched, HYFT pattern-patented AI-native vaccine discovery engine. Unlike traditional trial-and-error methods, IPA's discovery was achieved entirely in silico, demonstrating the platform's power to translate complex biological data into actionable vaccine design. Share Dr. Jennifer Bath, ImmunoPrecise Antibodies CEO commented, 'This breakthrough highlights a new frontier in AI-driven biology—where discovery is rooted in the biology of a virus itself. By confirming that our sequence-derived patented HYFT patterns match structural signatures across all dengue serotypes, we're setting the stage for a universal vaccine design framework. Ultimately, this research validates a persistent target that may allow doctors to home in on a signal to eliminate the virus regardless of mutations that may have occurred. More importantly, the implications appear to stretch far beyond the dengue virus. This is a foundation that research indicates can now be applied to many other infectious diseases and potentially even certain types of cancer.' Building on this success in dengue, IPA now intends to extend its AI-driven vaccine design platform to other high-impact infectious diseases, for example, HIV, Norovirus, and an improved RSV vaccine. Early-stage assessments are also underway to explore the platform's application in oncology for neoantigen vaccine development and tumor-specific epitope mapping. This discovery underscores IPA's commitment to advancing drug discovery through innovative, human-relevant AI technologies that align with evolving industry standards. Using HYFT's patented ability to map biologically meaningful sub-sequence patterns across the entire biosphere, the Company's proprietary LENS ai platform identified a unique epitope shared across all four serotypes of the dengue virus—DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. These serotypes are distinct versions of the virus that circulate globally, and because infection with one does not protect against the others, identifying a common target is a critical step toward developing a broadly protective dengue vaccine. Unlike traditional trial-and-error methods, IPA's discovery was achieved entirely in silico, demonstrating the platform's power to translate complex biological data into actionable vaccine design. Breaking the Dengue Barrier: Patented HYFT-Powered AI Achieves What Decades of Science Could Not Why Has a Universal Dengue Vaccine Been So Elusive? Dengue is not just one virus—it's four distinct, rapidly-evolving serotypes. Immunity to one does not guarantee protection from the others, and prior infection can even make subsequent disease worse. For decades, vaccine researchers have struggled to find a viral component that is both exposed and truly conserved across all four types—a challenge compounded by the virus's rapid mutation and complex immune interactions. Traditional methods, whether experimental or computational, have repeatedly fallen short, unable to fully bridge the gap between sequence, structure, and function at a meaningful scale. Confirmed Breakthrough: Sequence and Structural HYFT Match Across All Four Serotypes IPA's discovery is a landmark moment in computational vaccinology. Using its proprietary LENSai™ platform powered by their patented HYFT® technology, the company has identified a strictly conserved epitope across all four dengue virus serotypes— a viral signature that remains unchanged despite mutations and serotype variation, and that can be targeted to trigger the immune system in efforts to eliminate the virus. This achievement marks a critical milestone in the quest for a universal dengue vaccine. What sets this apart is the depth of validation: Patented HYFT patterns, derived based on the conservation of sequence data. were independently confirmed to match corresponding structural HYFTs across all four dengue serotypes. This was made possible through LENS ai 's integration of over 20 million proprietary Structural HYFTs (S-HYFTs), enabling the platform to overlay three-dimensional conformations onto sequence-level, biology-native fingerprints. The validation demonstrates that LENS ai doesn't simply identify linear motifs—it can infer conformational and functional structures from sequence data alone, bypassing the need for time-consuming experimental techniques like crystallography or cryo-EM. This milestone affirms the patented HYFT technology's unique ability to traverse the full biological hierarchy—from DNA/RNA sequence to molecular structure to therapeutic relevance. It signals that AI-native models, rooted in biology-first principles, can now deliver actionable insights previously achievable only through years of wet-lab research. The end-to-end LENS ai platform integrates patented HYFT® universal fingerprints with deep learning, structural predictions, and literature-mined knowledge graphs to rapidly identify and refine candidate epitopes—without requiring lab-based inputs. The result: full immunogen design and in silico immunogenicity screening, dramatically reducing the time and cost of early-stage vaccine development and unlocking new opportunities to tackle even the most complex viral challenges. About ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. is a techbio company that leverages multi-omics modeling and complex artificial intelligence through a series of proprietary and patented technologies. The Company owns an integrated end-to-end suite of capabilities to support the discovery and development of therapeutic antibodies and is known for solving complex industry challenges. IPA has several subsidiaries in North America and Europe including entities such as Talem Therapeutics LLC, BioStrand BV, ImmunoPrecise Antibodies (Canada) Ltd. and ImmunoPrecise Antibodies (Europe) B.V. (collectively, the 'IPA Family'). Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable United States and Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," or similar expressions, or statements that certain actions, events, or results "may," "will," "could," or "might" occur or be achieved. These statements include, but are not limited to, those related to the anticipated benefits, scalability, adoption, and broader application of the LENS ai ™ and HYFT® platforms; the advancement and regulatory acceptance of AI-native drug discovery and vaccine development methods; the expansion of IPA's discovery engine to additional infectious disease and oncology targets; and the Company's ongoing ability to maintain scientific, regulatory, and commercial momentum. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations, assumptions, and projections about future events. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied due to a variety of factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, but are not limited to, scientific or technological developments, changes in regulatory requirements or acceptance, competitive or market dynamics, intellectual property protection and enforcement, integration or operational risks, and changes in economic or business conditions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied herein. Additional information regarding risks and uncertainties is included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F, as amended, for the year ended April 30, 2024 (available on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at and EDGAR profile at Should any of these risks materialize, actual results could vary significantly from those currently anticipated. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.
Daily Mirror
03-06-2025
- General
- Daily Mirror
Urgent NHS alert as virus is spreading 'easily' and 'more than usual'
The public has been urged to take steps to prevent the spread of the sickness, which causes vomiting and diarrhoea. People across the UK are being warned about a rise in a particularly nasty sickness bug, which is being reported more frequently than usual for this time of year. This illness can render people housebound for days and can be easily spread if you're not aware of how to stop it. Norovirus can affect anyone, regardless of age; you might become susceptible to this illness. It's a very contagious virus that transmits through interaction with infected individuals and contaminated surfaces. Speaking on X, an NHS spokesperson said: "Norovirus cases are currently higher than we normally see at this time of year. The virus can spread very easily." They continued: "Washing your hands frequently with soap and water is the best way to stop it spreading. If you catch norovirus, stay at home and rest." Also known as the 'vomiting bug,' this unwelcome illness causes nausea and diarrhoea. Toughing it out can be unpleasant, but the NHS assures that most people will be better after two days. Norovirus is often referred to as the "stomach flu" or the "stomach bug." However, norovirus illness is not connected to the flu. The flu is caused by the influenza virus, while norovirus leads to acute gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach or intestines. You can experience norovirus illness multiple times throughout your life. This is due to the existence of various types of noroviruses. Being infected with one type of norovirus does not guarantee protection against others. While it is possible to build immunity to certain types, the exact duration of this protection is unclear. This uncertainty might clarify why individuals of all ages frequently contract infections during norovirus outbreaks. The NHS says: "Norovirus spreads very easily and quickly in different ways." It also says: "You can still spread norovirus for 2 weeks or more after you feel better." How to tell if you have norovirus: Typically, symptoms start between 12 to 48 hours from exposure. According to NHS guidance, people should look out for a sudden symptom such as: feeling sick being sick (vomiting) diarrhoea These main signs may come with a fever, headaches or body aches, with your stomach often bearing the brunt of it. Despite being called the winter vomiting bug, it can strike in any season. This name comes from the higher level of cases that come during the winter months. Norovirus is very contagious, but you can take steps to protect yourself and others, including: Wash your hands well and often. Cook shellfish thoroughly and wash fruits and vegetables. Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces. Wash laundry in hot water. Stay home when sick for 2 days (48 hours) after symptoms stop. Norovirus is often manageable at home, typically requiring treatment for the diarrhoea and vomiting symptoms. The NHS stressed that the "most important thing" is to drink "lots of fluids to avoid dehydration". People are usually warned to avoid fruit juices and fizzy drinks since they "can make diarrhoea worse." Norovirus is highly contagious, and close contact poses a risk of infection. It's possible to continue spreading the virus for two weeks or more after symptoms go away, so it is very important to continue some of the precautions, such as thorough handwashing with soap and water and minimising contact with others, to help curb the transmission of norovirus. It's advised to stay away from school, nursery, or work until you've been free from vomiting and diarrhoea for at least two days. You should also avoid visiting hospitals or other vulnerable populations during this time.
Irish Daily Mirror
29-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
'If you've got these 3 symptoms, stay home' warns HSE amid baffling bug surge
Health officials are urging people to stay at home if they have three key symptoms, as Ireland is seeing an unusual off-season surge of a highly contagious bug. Confirmed cases of Norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, have nearly doubled in a week and it's spreading rapidly through the community - despite it being nearly June. Norovirus usually surges in winter months, but health experts have warned that it is "currently circulating at high levels in the community", and could continue to do so for "the next number of weeks". In the latest figures from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), 62 cases were reported in the last week - a jump of 28 cases (82.4%) from 34 cases the previous week. The majority of cases (44) were among those aged 65 and older. The rest were spread across age groups with four cases each in the 45-64 and 25-44 brackets, one case in 19-24 year olds, and nine cases among children aged 0-4. No cases were reported in the 5-18 age group. The illness, which causes a sudden vomiting and diarrhoea, is extremely infectious and can be caught through close contact, contaminated surfaces and airborne droplets. Symptoms usually appear one to two days after exposure and last for two to three days. There's no cure or treatment for norovirus, and as it's a virus, antibiotics don't help. Most people recover at home with rest and plenty of fluids. In an update issued this week, the HPSC said: "Norovirus, in most people, is an unpleasant but mild illness that passes off quickly without any treatment. It can usually be managed at home - drinking plenty of fluids is usually all that is needed." The health officials advised anyone with symptoms to stay off work, school or social activities for at least 48 hours after symptoms have passed. According to the HSE, you're likely to have norovirus if you: Some people also have: While the virus typically only lasts a few days, it spreads rapidly and can be especially dangerous in settings like hospitals, nursing homes and schools. In a key public message this week, the HPSC urged people to follow these steps to help prevent further spread: The HSE also reminded the public that norovirus can infect you more than once because it constantly mutates, meaning your body cannot build lasting immunity.
