On the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, we recognize the significance of projects like EPIVINF, which examine how viruses impact human epigenetics to prevent and mitigate future health crises
On 27 December 2020, the United Nations General Assembly celebrated for the first time the International Day for Epidemic Preparedness. This day seeks to raise awareness of prevention, preparedness and collaboration as pillars for addressing global health crises.
In this context, EPIVINF stands out as a key EU-funded research project studying how viruses such as HIV and SARS-CoV-2 impact epigenetic regulation in the human body. These epigenetic alterations can trigger long-lasting health effects, even after the active infection has cleared.
Using advanced molecular biology and bioinformatics techniques, EPIVINF explores the mechanisms behind these epigenetic modifications and develops predictive tools to identify populations at risk. This allows the design of specific prevention and treatment strategies, strengthening the global response capacity to future epidemics.
The project also underlines the importance of international scientific collaboration, a key principle of International Epidemic Preparedness Day, to address together health challenges that know no borders.
On this commemorative day, EPIVINF reaffirms the role of science in building a more resilient and secure future in the face of emerging health threats.