Unravel the intricate stories behind ancient mummies and their connection to various pathogens in our latest podcast episode of this season. This engaging discussion leads listeners through a fascinating exploration of how the health of past civilizations reveals untold secrets about diseases that shaped their societies. We explore the different types of mummies—both anthropogenic and spontaneous—and what their preservation tells us about historical health crises.

From the chilling preservation of bog bodies to the revered Egyptian mummies, we investigate how these artifacts serve as vital sources of knowledge about ancient diseases like malaria, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease. As we draw connections between these historical pathogens and contemporary health issues, we raise intriguing discussions about how climate change and globalization may affect disease patterns today.

Our conversation is enriched by studies revealing the presence of ancient pathogens in notable figures such as Otzi the Iceman and the Medici mummies. Each discovery unravels a layer of mystery surrounding how societies dealt with illness, healthcare practices, and even the beliefs connected to death and preservation.

Join us as we dive deep into the fascinating interplay between history, culture, and disease. By understanding the past, we illuminate paths for the future. Subscribe now and participate in the conversation about these vital links in our health narrative! Spread the word, leave a review, and let us know what ancient topics inspire your curiosity for future episodes.

Quick Correction: Lyme does not need colder climates.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

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Unlock the secrets of the brain's most enigmatic conditions with Dr. Mauro Montalbano, our esteemed guest from the University of Texas Medical Branch. He takes us on a journey through his lab's cutting-edge research into neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. You'll gain a deep understanding of the sinister role played by protein aggregates, particularly amyloid beta and tau proteins, and their prion-like behavior that drives the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Montalbano's journey from Sicily to Galveston adds a personal touch to his pioneering efforts in neuroscience, underscoring the critical need to decipher early-stage processes in disease progression.

Our discussion ventures into the unpredictable realm of Alzheimer's, illustrated by a compelling family story that highlights the disease's capricious nature. Despite shared genetics and lifestyle, one sister succumbs to Alzheimer's while the other lives a long life, challenging our understanding of its onset. We examine the ongoing focus on amyloid plaques and the vital roles of microglia and astrocytes in regulating protein buildup in the brain. The conversation also taps into the mysteries of cognitive resilience among certain individuals and how current therapies aim to reduce inflammation as a strategy to slow progression.

We further explore the intricate link between vascular health and Alzheimer's, where factors like atherosclerosis, sleep quality, and auditory health are potential culprits of cognitive decline. Dr. Montalbano guides us through the complexities of treating late-stage Alzheimer's and the promise of early intervention and preventative strategies. In a world increasingly focused on personalized medicine, he sheds light on the challenges and potential breakthroughs on the horizon, while also pondering the possible long-term impacts of COVID-19 on dementia prevalence. This episode promises to enlighten and challenge your understanding of these profound neurological puzzles.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

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This episode tackles the alarming rise of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States, exploring our hidden epidemic and the multitude of factors leading to this increase. We delve into the impact of COVID-19, the necessity for comprehensive sex education, the influence of cultural norms, and the importance of destigmatizing conversations around sexual health. Tune in to learn about:

• One Health and its relevance to STIs
• How the COVID-19 pandemic affected public health services around STIs
• The role of inadequate sexual education in exacerbating STI rates
• The impact of dating apps and hookup culture on sexual health behaviors
• Specifics on the rising rates of syphilis and other STIs
• Importance of proactive testing and screenings for all individuals
• The call for inclusivity in sexual health discussions and education
• The need to destigmatize conversations around sexual health

If you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and go ahead and share this episode with some of your friends.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

Also, please don’t hesitate to ask questions or tell us which topics you want us to cover in future episodes. To get in touch, drop us a line in the comment section or send us a message on social media.
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Gain a deeper understanding of the intricate connections between humans, animals, and the environment as we explore the One Health concept. Picture the harmony of adding a curious chameleon to our office or the joy of raising a lamb on a farm, and discover how these experiences underscore the vital interplay between species. Together, we unravel the complexities of zoonotic diseases, emphasizing the crucial balance needed to maintain a healthy ecosystem, while sharing compelling personal stories that bring the science to life.

Journey with us through the world of infectious diseases tied to our animal companions, from the salmonella lurking on reptiles to the risks posed by cats. We highlight the precautions necessary for those with vulnerable immune systems, offering insights into living safely with pets and wildlife. Explore the unique challenges of practicing medicine in bustling port cities, where unexpected diseases like murine typhus lurk, and learn about the biosecurity measures that protect both human and animal health in diverse environments.

Discover the profound benefits and responsibilities of pet ownership, from the heartwarming stories of the incarcerated training service animals to the comfort therapy dogs bring in hospitals. We emphasize the importance of vaccinations and responsible care, offering practical tips and trusted resources to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. Stay engaged with the Infectious Science community as we invite you to subscribe, share your thoughts, and remain curious about the fascinating interplay between humans and the natural world.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

Also, please don’t hesitate to ask questions or tell us which topics you want us to cover in future episodes. To get in touch, drop us a line in the comment section or send us a message on social media.
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Could tuberculosis truly shape our understanding of beauty? Prepare to unravel the eerie yet intriguing connection between this historical disease and the evolution of beauty standards across centuries. With Christina and Camille at the helm, we guide you through the pale, waif-like ideals of the 17th and 18th centuries, deeply entwined with TB’s impact. Drawing from Carolyn Day’s insightful work “Consumptive Chic,” we discuss how TB's haunting image inspired Victorian fashion and even shaped modern grooming habits, particularly influencing the preference for clean-shaven looks among men.

Explore the curious fusion of fashion, health, and societal perceptions as we dissect how TB influenced women's fashion choices. From the pointed corsets and makeup that mimicked the consumptive look, to the cultural shifts driven by food accessibility and public health initiatives, we reveal how a medical condition could transform clothing norms. Our conversation even takes a lighthearted turn, contemplating how TB sparked an enduring fascination with women’s shoes, leaving a lasting legacy on shopping habits.

Finally, we venture into the romanticized allure of TB during the 18th and 19th centuries, where the disease was bizarrely perceived as a beauty enhancer. Even Lord Byron used it in his courting repertoire! As we compare photographic studies of TB patients to healthy individuals, we set the stage for an upcoming discussion on the connection between vampire lore and the disease porphyria. Join us as we invite you to share your thoughts and engage with our community, preparing for more fascinating episodes that blend history, culture, and science.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

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Happy Halloween from the Infectious Science Podcast team! Join us as we dive into the parallels between medical and folkloric narratives. In this episode we explore how rabies inspired the werewolf myth. We dissect how rabies causes neurological symptoms and explore how forms of education and storytelling around disease have shifted over time. We hope this episode has you howling with laughter as you learn something new!

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

Also, please don’t hesitate to ask questions or tell us which topics you want us to cover in future episodes. To get in touch, drop us a line in the comment section or send us a message on social media.
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Antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals have revolutionized modern medicine, saving countless lives and transforming our approach to infectious diseases. In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the differences between these powerful tools of modern medicine. We explore their discovery, impacts, and the pressing issue of evolving resistance.

We dive into where we get antibiotics, how they work and why responsible antibiotic use is so important to prevent antibiotic resistance. We highlight the critical role of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of bacterial infections to prevent resistance from developing.

We also dive in to the intricate interactions between microorganisms and our immune system. For instance, certain fungi and bacteria are essential for maintaining a healthy balance, but under specific conditions, they can cause infections. We discuss fungal pathogens like rose gardener's disease and aspergillus, emphasizing the importance of understanding fungal infections, especially in the context of rising global temperatures and their impact on fungal behavior.

Antivirals, another critical class of antimicrobials, target viral infections by preventing viruses from replicating. This episode explores the challenges in developing effective antivirals, such as the rapid mutation rates of viruses and the difficulty of targeting viral components without harming host cells. Effective antiviral treatment often requires early administration, and the episode discusses the various forms these medications can take, from pills to intravenous injections.

This episode provides a comprehensive guide to the world of antimicrobials, blending historical insights and scientific knowledge. We underscore the importance of responsible antibiotic use, the challenges of treating evolving and emerging diseases, and the critical role of the human microbiome. Listeners are encouraged to rethink their interactions with these microscopic beings and appreciate the delicate balance required to maintain health in the face of evolving pathogens. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a science enthusiast, or someone interested in the history or future of medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into the complex and fascinating world of antimicrobials. Tune in to learn more about how these powerful drugs have shaped our past, present, and future in the fight against infectious diseases.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

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Unlock the mysteries of Hansen's disease with us as we welcome acclaimed dermatopathologist, Dr. Mara Dacso. Through her journey from medical school in Galveston to her significant work in Baton Rouge, Dr. Dacso shares her extensive knowledge on leprosy, often termed the "great mimicker". Learn how the varied clinical presentations—from minor skin patches to severe systemic reactions—pose challenges for diagnosis and why it's crucial to consider leprosy in differential diagnoses. We'll also touch on unique transmission vectors, including armadillos and soil, and the prognosis for those who receive timely treatment.

Ever wondered why dermatologists and not infectious disease docs are often the first to diagnose leprosy in the U.S.? Dr. Dacso breaks down this phenomenon, revealing the diagnostic process and the importance of recognizing symptoms such as anesthetic lesions and enlarged nerves. Navigate through the complexities of treatment protocols recommended by the WHO, including the use of multi-drug therapy and the role of the National Hansen's Disease Program in combating drug resistance. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that underscores the critical importance of timely diagnosis and treatment in the fight against Hansen's disease.

Thanks for listening to the Infectious Science Podcast. Be sure to visit infectiousscience.org to join the conversation, access the show notes, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to receive our free materials.

We hope you enjoyed this new episode of Infectious Science, and if you did, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Please share this episode with others who may be interested in this topic!

Also, please don’t hesitate to ask questions or tell us which topics you want us to cover in future episodes. To get in touch, drop us a line in the comment section or send us a message on social media.
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