TWiV 1287: Ancient herpesviruses and modern dementia

This episode of TWiV explores herpesviruses, focusing on their impact on human health and evolution. The panel discusses a study tracing 2,500 years of human beta herpesvirus 6A and 6B diversity through ancient DNA, revealing insights into viral integration and evolution. They also examine a study on shingles vaccination and its effect on dementia, highlighting a significant reduction in mild cognitive impairment and dementia-related deaths, particularly among women. The discussion touches on the implications of these findings for vaccine strategies and the potential long-term impact of chickenpox vaccination on dementia rates. Additional topics include listener emails about website issues and vaccine hesitancy, along with book recommendations.