The fan mussel, Pinna nobilis, represents the largest bivalve endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. Since 2016, dramatic mass mortality of this species has been observed in several areas. The first surveys suggested that Haplosporidium pinnae (currently considered species-specific) was the main etiological agent, but recent studies have indicated that a multifactorial disease may be responsible for this phenomenon. In this study, we performed molecular diagnostic analyses on P. nobilis, P. rudis, and bivalve heterologous host species from the island of Sardinia to shed further light on the pathogens involved in the mass mortality. The results support the occurrence of a multifactorial disease and that Mycobacterium spp. and H. pinnae are not necessarily associated with the illness. Indeed, our analyses revealed that H. pinnae is not species-specific for P. nobilis, as it was present in other bivalves at least three years before the mass mortality began, and species of Mycobacterium were also found in healthy individuals of P. nobilis and P. rudis. We also detected the species Rhodococcus erythropolis, representing the first report in fan mussels of a bacterium other than Mycobacterium spp. and Vibrio spp. These results depict a complicated scenario, further demonstrating how the P. nobilis mass mortality event is far from being fully understood.

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical importance of vaccination to global health security and highlighted the potential of digital health solutions to improve immunization strategies. This article explores integrating digital health technologies with immunization programs to improve coverage, monitoring, and public health outcomes. It examines the current landscape of digital tools used in immunization initiatives, such as mobile health apps, electronic health records, and data analytics platforms. Case studies from different regions demonstrate the effectiveness of these technologies in addressing challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, logistics, and real-time monitoring of vaccine distribution and adverse events. The paper also examines ethical considerations, data privacy issues, and the need for a robust digital infrastructure to support these innovations. By analyzing the successes and limitations of digital health interventions in immunization campaigns during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, we provide recommendations for future integration strategies to ensure resilient and responsive immunization systems. This research aims to guide policymakers, health professionals, and technologists in leveraging digital health to strengthen immunization efforts and prepare for future public health emergencies.

Pinna nobilis is the largest endemic Mediterranean marine bivalve. During past centuries, various human activities have promoted the regression of its populations. As a consequence of stringent standards of protection, demographic expansions are currently reported in many sites. The aim of this study was to provide the first large broad-scale insight into the genetic variability of P. nobilis in the area that encompasses the western Mediterranean, Ionian Sea, and Adriatic Sea marine ecoregions. To accomplish this objective twenty-five populations from this area were surveyed using two mitochondrial DNA markers (COI and 16S). Our dataset was then merged with those obtained in other studies for the Aegean and Tunisian populations (eastern Mediterranean), and statistical analyses (Bayesian model-based clustering, median-joining network, AMOVA, mismatch distribution, Tajima’s and Fu’s neutrality tests and Bayesian skyline plots) were performed. The results revealed genetic divergence among three distinguishable areas: (1) western Mediterranean and Ionian Sea; (2) Adriatic Sea; and (3) Aegean Sea and Tunisian coastal areas. From a conservational point of view, populations from the three genetically divergent groups found may be considered as different management units.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a widespread viral pathogen, responsible for a significant burden of cervical and other cancers worldwide. Over the past decades, the development and widespread adoption of prophylactic HPV vaccines have dramatically reduced the incidence of HPV-related diseases. However, despite the efficacy of these vaccines, global immunization efforts still face several obstacles, including low vaccination coverage in low- and middle-income countries, vaccine hesitancy, and disparities in access to healthcare. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of HPV vaccines, including their mechanisms of action, safety profiles, and real-world efficacy. We will explore the impact of HPV vaccines on cancer prevention, examine the challenges related to vaccine distribution and uptake, and assess the role of public health policies in improving global vaccination rates. Additionally, the review will highlight the latest advancements in therapeutic HPV vaccines, ongoing research into next-generation vaccines, and the potential of HPV vaccination strategies in the context of personalized medicine. By examining these factors, we aim to provide insights into the future directions of HPV vaccination and its role in global public health.

Human T-lymphotropic viruses (HTLVs) are deltaretroviruses infecting millions of individuals worldwide, with HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 being the most widespread and clinically relevant types. HTLV-1 is associated with severe diseases such as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), while HTLV-2 shows a lower pathogenic potential, with occasional links to neurological disorders. HTLV-3 and HTLV-4, identified in Central Africa, remain poorly characterized but are genetically close to their simian counterparts, indicating recent zoonotic transmission events. HTLVs replicate through a complex cycle involving cell-to-cell transmission and clonal expansion of infected lymphocytes. Viral persistence is mediated by regulatory and accessory proteins, notably Tax and HBZ in HTLV-1, which alter host cell signaling, immune responses, and genomic stability. Integration of proviral DNA into transcriptionally active regions of the host genome may contribute to oncogenesis and long-term viral latency. Differences in viral protein function and intracellular localization contribute to the distinct pathogenesis observed between HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. Geographically, HTLV-1 shows endemic clusters in southwestern Japan, sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, South America, and parts of the Middle East and Oceania. HTLV-2 is concentrated among Indigenous populations in the Americas and people who inject drugs in Europe and North America. Transmission occurs primarily via breastfeeding, sexual contact, contaminated blood products, and, in some regions, zoonotic spillover. Diagnostic approaches include serological screening (ELISA, Western blot, LIA) and molecular assays (PCR, qPCR), with novel biosensor and AI-based methods under development. Despite advances in understanding viral biology, therapeutic options remain limited, and preventive strategies focus on transmission control. The long latency period, lack of effective treatments, and global neglect complicate public health responses, underscoring the need for increased awareness, research investment, and targeted interventions.