Get the latest Science News and Discoveries

The first pandemic? Scientists find 214 ancient pathogens in prehistoric DNA


Scientists have uncovered DNA from 214 ancient pathogens in prehistoric humans, including the oldest known evidence of plague. The findings show zoonotic diseases began spreading around 6,500 years ago, likely triggered by farming and animal domestication. These ancient infections may still influence us today, and help guide the vaccines of tomorrow.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on ScienceDaily

Read more on:

Photo of ancient pathogens

ancient pathogens

Photo of prehistoric DNA

prehistoric DNA

Photo of Scientists

Scientists

Related news:

News photo

Scientists uncover 15,000 kilometers of lost rivers on Mars

News photo

Scientists just found 200+ hidden proteins that may drive Alzheimer’s

News photo

Florida cat sniffs out another new virus—and scientists are listening