Maybe humans are to blame for zoonotic diseases. Human activities such as industrial farming and field research have placed us in close contact with animals, putting us at greater risk of not only catching novel diseases but also passing on human diseases to animals. This can create a cycle of zoonosis and reverse zoonosis — the transfer of pathogens from animals to humans and vice versa fueled by potentially dangerous mutations. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
