Rabies virus found in worms dangerous to humans

 A new study published in *Nature Microbiology* suggests an intriguing link between parasitic roundworms and viruses, including rabies virus, that could affect how these worms cause disease in humans.

Scientists have identified as many as 91 RNA viruses in 28 species of roundworms, which make up 70% of the worms that infect humans and animals worldwide. In particular, one of the viruses, a type of rhabdovirus responsible for causing rabies, has been detected in the roundworms that cause onchocerciasis, a disease known for causing river blindness and epilepsy.

The research suggests that neurological symptoms, such as epilepsy, may be the result of infection with the virus, not just the worms themselves. As one of the study authors notes, the virus can enter nervous tissue, which would explain the neurological disorders in infected people, especially in regions where onchocerciasis is common, such as sub-Saharan Africa.

This discovery opens up a new perspective on understanding infections caused by parasites. Rather than the direct action of the worms, viruses may be the real factor causing severe symptoms in humans. Further studies could help us understand the full scope of interactions between worms and viruses and their role in causing disease.