The Texas Biomed Insights blog is your source for expert perspectives on infectious diseases, biomedical research, biodefense, emerging viruses and global health. Learn about pathogens such as Ebola, tuberculosis, avian influenza and hantavirus, the role of Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) laboratories and the scientific discoveries helping prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Written by Texas Biomed scientists and research experts, these articles provide reliable information on some of the world’s most important health challenges.
Bird Flu in 2026: What Texans need to know about H5N1 and pandemic preparedness
Influenza A(H5N1), commonly known as “bird flu,” is not new—but it continues to evolve in ways that keep scientists watching closely in 2026. While the general public risk remains low, the virus has shown
What Is a Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) Laboratory? How Scientists Safely Study the World’s Most Dangerous Viruses
Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) laboratories are among the world’s most secure research facilities, enabling scientists to safely study the most dangerous infectious diseases while protecting researchers, communities and the environment. Learn what a BSL-4 lab is, how it operates and why this research is essential for developing vaccines, treatments and preparedness against future infectious disease threats.
Why One Health matters more than ever
What is One Health, and why is it becoming increasingly important? Discover how connecting human, animal and environmental health is helping scientists prevent disease outbreaks, improve public health and prepare for future biological threats.
What is New World screwworm? Why Texans should be paying attention
New World screwworm has re-emerged in Texas after decades of eradication, raising concerns for livestock, agriculture and public health. Learn what New World screwworm is, why it matters, how it spreads and what scientists are doing to help stop the outbreak.
Hantavirus in the headlines: Texas Biomed explains the science behind the viral threat
When news broke about a hantavirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius in April 2026, public attention quickly turned to a little-known virus that scientists have studied for decades but most people rarely hear about.
How Texas Biomed is advancing Ebola research and antiviral development
As Ebola outbreaks continue to emerge around the world, scientists are racing to develop effective antiviral therapies capable of stopping some of the world’s deadliest viruses before they become global threats.
Why Texas is becoming a national hub for pandemic preparedness and biodefense research
As the United States prepares for future pandemics and emerging biological threats, Texas is rapidly becoming one of the country’s most important centers for infectious disease research and biodefense innovation.