Doherty Institute

Doherty Institute

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The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity is a joint-venture between The University of Melbourne and The Royal Melbourne Hospital. Research includes #HIV, #hepatitis, #malaria, #influenza #COVID19 & more. www.doherty.edu.au

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Could Australia see a second flu peak this year? 📈 Experts share the latest influenza data, while continuing to monitor H5NI avian influenza in animals to support preparedness. https://bit.ly/47aNHJ6

bit.lyLatest national influenza data ahead of WHO biannual Consultation on 2027 vaccine composition - Doherty InstituteNew national surveillance data suggests this year's flu season may not be over, with cases rising and experts monitoring whether another peak could occur. At the same time, Australia is tracking H5N1 avian influenza in wild birds and other animal species.
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New evidence shows Buruli ulcer risk can be reduced by 80% through mosquito control in urban environments. A Melb study found specialised traps reduced mosquito numbers and led to fewer infections, offering a public health strategy ahead of spring/summer. https://bit.ly/4xtmfSp

bit.lyTargeting mosquitoes reduces Buruli ulcer risk in Melbourne trialA Melbourne-led study published in Nature Microbiology has found that mosquito control in an urban setting can reduce a person’s risk of contracting Buruli ulcer by over 80 per cent – the first evidence that suppressing mosquito populations directly protects people from the disease.
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A major injury and severe COVID-19 might have more in common than we thought. New research has identified shared immune responses across both conditions, a finding that could help improve treatment for critically ill patients worldwide. https://bit.ly/3T6kfRd

bit.lyCOVID-19 and major trauma trigger surprisingly similar immune responses, study finds - Doherty InstituteA Melbourne-based study has revealed that patients admitted to intensive care suffering from severe trauma or COVID-19 experience remarkably similar disruptions to their immune systems, opening the door to new precision treatments for intensive care units worldwide.
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Researchers have uncovered an ancient genetic change that may help explain how Mycobacterium tuberculosis evolved to evade the immune system, persist in the body and reactivate years later. https://bit.ly/3QIJqZ7

doherty.edu.auScientists uncover ancient genetic change behind the global spread of tuberculosis - Doherty InstituteResearchers at the Doherty Institute have uncovered a critical genetic change that helped Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB), evolve into one of the deadliest pathogens in human history.
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Are COVID-19 antivirals still an effective treatment option in 2026? Clinical researchers share their perspective after reviewing large clinical trials in contemporary populations with more immunity. https://bit.ly/4vN9eT4

doherty.edu.auStill treating yesterday’s risk? Reconsidering antiviral use for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 cases in a broadly immune population - Doherty InstituteThe COVID-19 antivirals molnupiravir (Lagevrio) and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) were introduced early in the pandemic to prevent high-risk individuals from becoming seriously unwell.
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A new study shows vaccination boosts immune responses, increasing B cells and antibodies, regardless of chronic health conditions. Findings help close a key gap in understanding vaccine responses in First Nations people. https://bit.ly/3SIcNLs

bit.lyAustralian First Nations people and the flu shot: Encouraging results amid chronic health challenges - Doherty InstituteExplore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.
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Next-generation flu vaccine delivers a stronger immune response to the A(H3N2) influenza strain in a new clinical trial, outperforming traditional egg- and cell-grown vaccines and highlighting the potential for improved seasonal protection. https://bit.ly/4uTCExz

doherty.edu.auRecombinant flu vaccine shows stronger immune response in clinical trial - Doherty InstituteExplore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.
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On Saturday the first case of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in Australia. What does this mean for our wildlife population? Origin, transmission and prevention measures explained by experts here 🔗 https://bit.ly/4eCSZAq

doherty.edu.auThe first case of H5N1 bird flu in Australia has been confirmed. What does this mean? - Doherty InstituteExplore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.
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Most people labelled “penicillin allergic” aren’t allergic. This World Allergy Week, Melb led trial highlights new model to safely rule it out through bedside testing in hospitals. ✅ Faster decisions ✅ Right antibiotics ✅ Better patient outcomes https://bit.ly/4fV6eiu

bit.lyWorld Allergy Week: Global study unlocks new way to rule out penicillin allergyMelbourne researchers have led the world’s largest study confirming most patients labelled allergic to penicillin are not truly allergic.
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A landmark international clinical trial (SNAP Trial) has identified the optimal antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infections, a breakthrough that is set to reshape treatment for the life-threatening condition. https://bit.ly/44eY8Kg

doherty.edu.auGlobal clinical trial reveals safest, most effective antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infectionsA landmark international clinical trial has identified the optimal antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infections, a breakthrough that is set to reshape treatment for the life-threatening condition.
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Parts of Australia are currently experiencing outbreaks of diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable bacterial illness. What causes diphtheria? What are the symptoms? How does it spread? Get answers to some of the most common questions about diphtheria. https://bit.ly/4ahSJFE

bit.lyDiphtheria: Your questions answered - Doherty InstituteDoherty Institute experts answer common questions about diphtheria, covering symptoms, risks, and prevention for Australians.
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A current Ebola virus disease outbreak overseas has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the WHO. Doherty Institute scientists unpack the key facts, from transmission and symptoms to laboratory testing and Australia’s risk. https://bit.ly/4dJ0buv

doherty.edu.auEbola virus explained: Risks, symptoms and testing in Victoria  - Doherty InstituteExplore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.
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Congratulations Prof Laura Mackay and Prof Katherine Kedzierska, two newly elected Fellows to the Australian Academy of Science in recognition of their contributions to immunology and infectious diseases research. https://bit.ly/4a3mwll

doherty.edu.auDoherty Institute scientists elected to the Australian Academy of Science - Doherty InstituteInternationally recognised for their contributions to immunology and infectious diseases research, University of Melbourne immunologists Professor Laura Mackay and Professor Katherine Kedzierska from the Doherty Institute have been elected as Fellows of...
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What to expect from the 2026 flu season - Experts share the latest case data and information on 2026 vaccine program. https://www.doherty.edu.au/articles/what-to-expect-from-the-2026-flu-season/

doherty.edu.auWhat to expect from the 2026 flu season - Doherty InstituteReported influenza cases so far in 2026 have halved compared to the same period in 2025, however last year was an unpredictable flu season. As we prepare for the start of winter, the most effective way to reduce the impact of respiratory infections is t...
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Today is Day of Immunology, recognising immunologists and their impact on modern medicine. By deepening our understanding of how the immune system responds to disease, immunology helps inform advances such as vaccine development.

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On World Malaria Day, we recognise how far malaria research has come and why discovery science remains essential. Doherty Institute researchers are uncovering how immune signals help build lasting protection after vaccination, informing next‑generation malaria vaccines. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4anRANm

doherty.edu.auFrom flicker to flame: How gd T cells spark long-lasting immune protection to Malaria  - Doherty InstituteDiscover how γδ T cells ignite long‑lasting immune protection against malaria, revealing their unique role at the crossroads of innate and adaptive immunity and opening new avenues for future vaccine research.
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Australia has been recognised by @who.int for meeting strict international standards for the safe containment of poliovirus samples. This certification reflects Australia’s ongoing role in global polio surveillance and eradication efforts. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/3Qe7odW

doherty.edu.auAustralia recognised by WHO for safe containment of poliovirus samples - Doherty InstituteAustralia’s Poliovirus Essential Facility hosted by the National Enterovirus Reference Laboratory, based at the Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (Doherty Institute), has been awarded a World Health Organization (WHO) Certificate of Con...
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New research shows getting your annual flu vaccine can protect you from seasonal influenza strains and prime your immune system to respond to future strains, even some that emerge decades later. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4saTNBw

bit.lyLooking back to protect the future: New insights into influenza immunity A new study from the Doherty Institute shows that seasonal influenza vaccination does more than protect against viruses circulating that year; it can also prime the immune system to respond to future strains, including some that emerge decades later.
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A portable device built on CRISPR technology can now detect multiple STIs, including syphilis, from a single sample in under an hour. Dr Shivani Pasricha explains how CRISPR could revolutionise STI diagnostics and improve patient care. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4bTwwOq

doherty.edu.auHow gene-targeting technology is transforming STI diagnosis - Doherty InstituteA team of researchers at the Doherty Institute have now put that versatility to work in a new device: the world's first rapid, point-of-care test capable of detecting all major bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – including syphilis – on a...
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A world-first portable point-of-care test detects syphilis, herpes, chlamydia & gonorrhoea simultaneously in under an hour — helping reduce misdiagnosis and cut transmission. https://bit.ly/4bjVlnl @unimelb.edu.au

doherty.edu.auNew rapid test to diagnose syphilis and other STIs in under an hour A world-first portable point-of-care test that detects four common sexually transmitted infections at once, in under an hour. The test, which detects syphilis, a high-burden infection, could significantly reduce transmission and improve access to timely treatment. 
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Could one vaccine protect against multiple deadly bacterial infections? Researchers at the Doherty Institute and Monash University have developed a promising preclinical vaccine targeting both golden staph and pneumococcal disease, as reported in Nature Microbiology. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4aBEiM8

doherty.edu.auNovel vaccine strategy shows protection against golden staph and pneumococcal disease - Doherty InstituteThe study raises the possibility of a single vaccine that could protect against multiple life-threatening bacterial infections.
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New research uncovers gamma‑delta T cells send a crucial signal through production of cytokine interleukin‑4, that helps the body fight parasitic infection, malaria. These findings offer new insights for boosting future vaccines and treatments. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4anRANm

doherty.edu.auFrom flicker to flame: How gd T cells spark long-lasting immune protection to Malaria  - Doherty InstituteDiscover how γδ T cells ignite long‑lasting immune protection against malaria, revealing their unique role at the crossroads of innate and adaptive immunity and opening new avenues for future vaccine ...
Doherty Institute
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A new way to tackle antibiotic‑resistant infections. Researchers have engineered antibodies that target pseudaminic acid — a sugar found only on bacterial cells — helping the immune system precisely identify and destroy drug‑resistant bacteria. https://bit.ly/45PSbVx

doherty.edu.auLab-engineered antibodies offer hope against drug-resistant superbugsResearchers may have developed a new way to fight drug-resistant bacteria, using specially engineered antibodies that target a sugar found only on bacterial cells. This approach allows the immune system to precisely identify harmful bacteria, potentiall...
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With Nipah making headlines again, it’s important to ask: what are the facts? Nipah virus is not new, cases remain limited, and outbreaks over the past two decades have been closely managed. In public health, following the facts matters. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4qXDU1l

bit.lyNipah in the news: why it’s essential to follow the facts, not the fictionDoherty Institute's Dr Danielle Anderson shares the latest insights on Nipah virus reemergence in India, with two recent confirmed cases in West Bengal.