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From the common cold to COVID-19, we explore how viruses live and thrive.

Viruses can be deadly or benign yet remain fascinating because they always need a host to survive and reproduce. Scientists studying viruses are optimistic that viruses could actually benefit our lives and planet if their secrets are decoded.

Learn how viruses work, and how vaccines are developed plus how viruses can jump from species to species and why the connections between viruses and bacteria could benefit our oceans.

How Viruses Work

 
Dr. Brian Ward, a professor in McGill University’s Division of Experimental Medicine, gives an overview of how viruses work and the effort being done to research them.

Take A Deeper Dive: McGill University Centre for the Study of Host Resistance

How Viruses Jump From Species To Species

 
Dr. Linda Saif, a distinguished professor of veterinary science at The Ohio State University, discusses the ways in which viruses can jump from species to species.

Take A Deeper Dive: Prevention – Can Animals Catch the Novel Coronavirus? Here’s How to Keep Your Pets Safe

How Are Vaccines Created?

 
Dr. Paul Offit, a pediatrician who specializes in infectious disease, virology and vaccine development, discusses how vaccines are created and the different phases of trials needed before they are approved.

Take A Deeper Dive: Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center

Bacteria And Viruses In Our Oceans

 
Dr. Matthew Sullivan, a professor of microbiology and the director of the Center of Microbiome Science at The Ohio State University, along with Chris Bowler, the current leader of the TARA Ocean Foundation, discuss the connections between viruses and bacteria in our oceans.

QED with Dr. B

QED with Dr. B, is a fun and informative science series, co-produced by WOSU Public Media and COSI, that talks one-on-one with the scientists, engineers and innovators who are redefining how we interact with our world. Watch the series online or on WOSU TV on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.