Medical Virology Needs More Attention - New Antivirals Discovery and Effective Vaccines Development

In an era where viral outbreaks dominate global headlines, the urgency of understanding the mechanics behind these invisible enemies of human health has never been more critical. Medical virology, a branch of microbiology, delves into the world of viruses, tiny infectious agents responsible for some of the most devastating diseases known to humanity. But what exactly is a virus, and why should we care?

Viruses are microscopic infectious particles that require a living host, such as humans, animals, or even plants, to replicate. Unlike bacteria or fungi, which can survive and reproduce outside a host, viruses lie dormant until they invade a living cell. Once inside, they hijack the cell's machinery to reproduce, often at the cost of the host's health. In humans, viral infections can range from the common cold to life-threatening illnesses, underscoring the urgent need to understand these pathogens to prevent and treat viral diseases effectively.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has been in the headlines by the World Health Declaration as a public health emergency of international concern. This viral illness is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids, skin lesions, respiratory droplets, contaminated objects, and, more recently, sexual transmission. Infected individuals often develop painful rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, the virus can lead to lasting scars, significant morbidity, and even death. The global spread of Mpox has highlighted the necessity of vigilance and public health strategies in preventing outbreaks.

Few viruses, however, have captured the world's attention, such as SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. In a matter of months, the virus swept across the globe, infecting millions and causing widespread disruption. Despite the best efforts of healthcare systems worldwide, the toll was staggering: millions of deaths and over a hundred million confirmed cases in the United States alone. However, the global scientific community responded with unprecedented speed, developing vaccines and public health measures that ultimately helped slow the spread of the virus. Still, the pandemic serves as a sobering reminder of the potentially catastrophic impact of viral infections, underlining the gravity of the situation.

Yet, while the world grappled with the coronavirus, another virus has continued its devastating march: HIV. Since the virus was first identified in the 1980s, it has claimed the lives of over 42 million people. By the end of 2023, nearly 40 million people were living with HIV, with the majority of cases in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite the absence of a cure, advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment have transformed HIV from a fatal illness into a manageable chronic condition for many. But the fight is far from over; HIV continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives each year, with millions more newly infected.

Similarly, viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C, remains a major global health concern. The World Health Organization estimates that 254 million people are living with hepatitis B, while 50 million are infected with hepatitis C. Each day, thousands of new cases of viral hepatitis are reported, adding to the growing global burden of liver disease. Hepatitis, like HIV, is a long-term challenge that requires continuous investment in research, prevention, and treatment strategies.

This brings us back to medical virology, a field that offers more than just a theoretical understanding of viruses. It is a vital tool in the ongoing battle against viral diseases, which is far from over. Medical virologists study viruses' structure, behavior, and transmission, providing crucial insights that lead to developing diagnostic tools, antiviral therapies, and vaccines. From the polio vaccine to the mRNA vaccines used against COVID-19, medical virology's contributions have saved countless lives and continue shaping global health's future.

According to Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, a well recognized virologist and Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad, medical virology is a relatively neglected field compared with other infectious diseases. Unfortunately, a recent surge in viral infections necessitates paying more attention to medical virology in almost every discipline, from basic virology to developing new antivirals and effective vaccines.

As the world faces an ever-increasing number of viral threats, the work of medical virologists is fulfilling the unmet needs of improving human health. By understanding how viruses operate, we can better equip ourselves to prevent the next pandemic, mitigate the effects of viral infections, and protect public health. In an interconnected world, where a virus in one corner of the globe can quickly spread to another, the study of medical virology is not just essential; it is life-saving. Lessons learned from past and present outbreaks will continue to guide us, ensuring that future generations are better equipped to face the invisible adversaries that threaten human health.