Memory is invaluable when it comes to the immune system. The immune system is the body’s natural defence mechanism against infection or foreign pathogens and is made up of two key systems. The innate immunity is a rapid, non-specific first response to pathogens or tissue injury. In contrast, adaptive immunity[Read More…]
Tag: vaccine
A long road ahead: The obstacles facing COVID-19 vaccine distribution
As the second wave of COVID-19 intensifies and many countries around the world enter another lockdown, scientists and pharmaceutical companies have raced to produce the most effective vaccine. Moderna and Pfizer have emerged as clear winners, with many countries already beginning to administer their products. With the successful development of[Read More…]
New COVID-19 vaccine tracker developed by McGill scientists shows status of vaccines
McGill Professor of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health Dr. Nicole Basta and her team released a COVID-19 vaccine tracker on Oct. 26. The website is now available for the public to see real-time updates on vaccines that are being developed. The tracker displays information about at least 50 vaccines currently[Read More…]
McGill researchers develop new model for Zika virus experiments
The spread of new and emerging viruses poses a constant threat to public health and presents a concern to developing and developed countries alike. Population growth, climate change, and the increasing ease and speed of travel have exacerbated the transmission of these viruses. Overpopulation results in the construction of homes[Read More…]
McGill students and faculty push for vaccine education
“Prevention against morbidity and mortality by vaccination is one of the biggest medical successes in humanity. Never forget that fact. Get vaccinated,” Dr. Jörg Fritz, assistant professor in McGill’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology, told the audience at the first night of the three-part seminar series entitled “Let’s Talk About[Read More…]
SSMU passes global access to medicines, cost-free birth control
At its Nov. 17 meeting, the Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) Legislative Council voted to pass the Motion Regarding Global Access to Medicines Policy and the Motion Regarding SSMU Support for Cost-Free Birth Control Coverage. According to SSMU President Ben Ger, Council voted on motions that were originally supposed[Read More…]
Straightening out our public health priorities
The world has been focused on the eradication of polio since the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988. The campaign is backed by massive funding from private philanthropists such as Bill Gates, and by the Global Alliance for Immunizations and Vaccinations (GAVI). Today, only one wild[Read More…]
Vaccines, GMOs, and cell phones: The Lorne Trottier Symposium discusses modern controversies
Known for his ventures in communicating science to the general public, Director of the Office for Science and Society (OSS), Joe Schwarcz moderated the 10th annual Lorne Trottier Public Science Symposium this past Monday and Tuesday at Centre Mont Royal. Every year, the symposium brings together like-minded individuals to discuss[Read More…]
Research Briefs—Feb. 24, 2015
Giving the finger The notion that there exists a correlation between the length of a person’s finger and their amicability may seem strange. However, researchers from McGill University are showing exactly that—but only in men. Scientists, by comparing the length of the index second finger (2D) to the fourth finger[Read More…]