TWiV 1317: Dead shrimp walking

The episode examines the human DNA virome and an emerging zoonotic eye disease linked to aquatic viruses. Large-scale genomic analysis reveals that viral DNA loads in blood and saliva are significantly influenced by human genetics, age, sex, and seasonal factors, with the MHC region playing a primary role in immune responses. Concurrently, a newly identified condition, Persistent Ocular Hypertension and Viral Anterior Uveitis (POVAL), correlates with exposure to the Covert Mortality Notovirus (CMNV). This virus, prevalent in global aquaculture and wild aquatic species like Antarctic krill, causes ocular damage in humans through direct contact or consumption of raw seafood. Additionally, the discussion addresses the immunological longevity of measles vaccines, clarifying that stable antigenicity rather than mutation rates determines vaccine efficacy over decades, while highlighting the necessity of multi-dose regimens to ensure population-wide protection.