DNA analysis of ancient mummy, thought to have smallpox, points to Hepatitis B instead

(McMaster University) A team of scientists has sequenced the complete genome of an ancient strain of the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), shedding new light on a pervasive, complex and deadly pathogen that today kills nearly one million people every year. While little is known about its evolutionary history and origin, the findings confirm the idea that HBV has existed in humans for centuries.
Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: news