Researchers have uncovered an ancient genetic change that may help explain how Mycobacterium tuberculosis evolved to evade the immune system, persist in the body and reactivate years later. https://bit.ly/3QIJqZ7

Scientists uncover ancient genetic change behind the global spread of tuberculosis - Doherty Institute

Researchers at the Doherty Institute have uncovered a critical genetic change that helped Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (TB), evolve into one of the deadliest pathogens in human history.

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Are COVID-19 antivirals still an effective treatment option in 2026? Clinical researchers share their perspective after reviewing large clinical trials in contemporary populations with more immunity. https://bit.ly/4vN9eT4

Still treating yesterday’s risk? Reconsidering antiviral use for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 cases in a broadly immune population - Doherty Institute

The COVID-19 antivirals molnupiravir (Lagevrio) and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) were introduced early in the pandemic to prevent high-risk individuals from becoming seriously unwell.

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New research reveals B cells do much more than produce antibodies - they also help activate and sustain T cells to fight chronic infections, like cancer or auto immune diseases. https://bit.ly/4wdXKrw

A new study shows vaccination boosts immune responses, increasing B cells and antibodies, regardless of chronic health conditions. Findings help close a key gap in understanding vaccine responses in First Nations people. https://bit.ly/3SIcNLs

Australian First Nations people and the flu shot: Encouraging results amid chronic health challenges - Doherty Institute

Explore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.

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Next-generation flu vaccine delivers a stronger immune response to the A(H3N2) influenza strain in a new clinical trial, outperforming traditional egg- and cell-grown vaccines and highlighting the potential for improved seasonal protection. https://bit.ly/4uTCExz

Recombinant flu vaccine shows stronger immune response in clinical trial - Doherty Institute

Explore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.

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On Saturday the first case of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 was confirmed in Australia. What does this mean for our wildlife population? Origin, transmission and prevention measures explained by experts here 🔗 https://bit.ly/4eCSZAq

The first case of H5N1 bird flu in Australia has been confirmed. What does this mean? - Doherty Institute

Explore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.

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Most people labelled “penicillin allergic” aren’t allergic. This World Allergy Week, Melb led trial highlights new model to safely rule it out through bedside testing in hospitals. ✅ Faster decisions ✅ Right antibiotics ✅ Better patient outcomes https://bit.ly/4fV6eiu

World Allergy Week: Global study unlocks new way to rule out penicillin allergy

Melbourne researchers have led the world’s largest study confirming most patients labelled allergic to penicillin are not truly allergic.

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A landmark international clinical trial (SNAP Trial) has identified the optimal antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infections, a breakthrough that is set to reshape treatment for the life-threatening condition. https://bit.ly/44eY8Kg

Global clinical trial reveals safest, most effective antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infections

A landmark international clinical trial has identified the optimal antibiotics for golden staph bloodstream infections, a breakthrough that is set to reshape treatment for the life-threatening condition.

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Discover our 2025 Impact Report, highlighting key achievements across the Doherty Institute's work in research, public health and education. Explore our digital 2025 Impact Report 🔗 https://bit.ly/3SMs5Ph

Impact Report 2025

Our Impact Report captures a snapshot of what we achieved in 2025, showcasing the breadth and depth of our work in research, public health and education.

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Parts of Australia are currently experiencing outbreaks of diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable bacterial illness. What causes diphtheria? What are the symptoms? How does it spread? Get answers to some of the most common questions about diphtheria. https://bit.ly/4ahSJFE

Diphtheria: Your questions answered - Doherty Institute

Doherty Institute experts answer common questions about diphtheria, covering symptoms, risks, and prevention for Australians.

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A current Ebola virus disease outbreak overseas has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the WHO. Doherty Institute scientists unpack the key facts, from transmission and symptoms to laboratory testing and Australia’s risk. https://bit.ly/4dJ0buv

Ebola virus explained: Risks, symptoms and testing in Victoria  - Doherty Institute

Explore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.

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Congratulations Prof Laura Mackay and Prof Katherine Kedzierska, two newly elected Fellows to the Australian Academy of Science in recognition of their contributions to immunology and infectious diseases research. https://bit.ly/4a3mwll

Doherty Institute scientists elected to the Australian Academy of Science - Doherty Institute

Internationally recognised for their contributions to immunology and infectious diseases research, University of Melbourne immunologists Professor Laura Mackay and Professor Katherine Kedzierska from the Doherty Institute have been elected as Fellows of...

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Hantavirus has been in the news overseas, but what does it mean for Australia? Scientists at the Doherty Institute explain how the virus spreads, the symptoms it can cause, how testing works in Australia, and why the risk remains low. https://bit.ly/4uEIWl2

Hantavirus: Your questions answered - Doherty Institute

Explore our work in research, public health and education at the Doherty Institute.

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What to expect from the 2026 flu season - Experts share the latest case data and information on 2026 vaccine program. https://www.doherty.edu.au/articles/what-to-expect-from-the-2026-flu-season/

What to expect from the 2026 flu season - Doherty Institute

Reported influenza cases so far in 2026 have halved compared to the same period in 2025, however last year was an unpredictable flu season. As we prepare for the start of winter, the most effective way to reduce the impact of respiratory infections is t...

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Today is Day of Immunology, recognising immunologists and their impact on modern medicine. By deepening our understanding of how the immune system responds to disease, immunology helps inform advances such as vaccine development.

On World Malaria Day, we recognise how far malaria research has come and why discovery science remains essential. Doherty Institute researchers are uncovering how immune signals help build lasting protection after vaccination, informing next‑generation malaria vaccines. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4anRANm

From flicker to flame: How gd T cells spark long-lasting immune protection to Malaria  - Doherty Institute

Discover how γδ T cells ignite long‑lasting immune protection against malaria, revealing their unique role at the crossroads of innate and adaptive immunity and opening new avenues for future vaccine research.

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Last year, Doherty Institute researchers made global news with a world‑first approach utilising mRNA technology to target and wake up hidden HIV cells. Now, this approach will be advanced thanks to $1.2M boost NHMRC IDEAS Grants Scheme. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4mvc8YJ

Australia has been recognised by @who.int for meeting strict international standards for the safe containment of poliovirus samples. This certification reflects Australia’s ongoing role in global polio surveillance and eradication efforts. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/3Qe7odW

Australia recognised by WHO for safe containment of poliovirus samples - Doherty Institute

Australia’s Poliovirus Essential Facility hosted by the National Enterovirus Reference Laboratory, based at the Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (Doherty Institute), has been awarded a World Health Organization (WHO) Certificate of Con...

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New research shows getting your annual flu vaccine can protect you from seasonal influenza strains and prime your immune system to respond to future strains, even some that emerge decades later. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4saTNBw

Looking back to protect the future: New insights into influenza immunity

A new study from the Doherty Institute shows that seasonal influenza vaccination does more than protect against viruses circulating that year; it can also prime the immune system to respond to future strains, including some that emerge decades later.

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A portable device built on CRISPR technology can now detect multiple STIs, including syphilis, from a single sample in under an hour. Dr Shivani Pasricha explains how CRISPR could revolutionise STI diagnostics and improve patient care. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4bTwwOq

How gene-targeting technology is transforming STI diagnosis - Doherty Institute

A team of researchers at the Doherty Institute have now put that versatility to work in a new device: the world's first rapid, point-of-care test capable of detecting all major bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) – including syphilis – on a...

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Interested in helping research looking at immune responses to vaccines against mosquito-borne diseases? If you’re 18 - 60 years with no serious immune problems, you may be eligible for our study in Melbourne. 🔗 For more info visit https://bit.ly/47JVRIl

Your generation can fight Chlamydia. Ready to help? Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide. In more than 80% of cases, individuals have no symptoms and are unaware they are infected. If you are aged 18-29 years, you may be eligible to join this vaccine trial. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4ajaZ1Z

Your generation can fight Chlamydia. Ready to help? Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide. In more than 80% of cases, individuals have no symptoms and are unaware they are infected. If you are aged 18-29 years, you may be eligible to join this vaccine trial. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4ajaZ1Z

🔬 50 years of electron microscopy (EM) at VIDRL, from Australia’s first HIV ultrastructural images in the 1980s to the first local images of SARS‑CoV‑2. EM is a vital tool for detecting and characterising pathogens during outbreaks. Find out more 🔗 https://bit.ly/4sLZOoK

Interested in helping research looking at immune responses to vaccines against mosquito-borne diseases? If you’re 18 - 60 years with no serious immune problems, you may be eligible for our study in Melbourne. 🔗 For more info visit https://bit.ly/47JVRIl

Your generation can fight Chlamydia. Ready to help? Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide. In more than 80% of cases, individuals have no symptoms and are unaware they are infected. If you are aged 18-29 years, you may be eligible to join this vaccine trial. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4ajaZ1Z

Interested in helping research looking at immune responses to vaccines against mosquito-borne diseases? If you’re 18 - 60 years with no serious immune problems, you may be eligible for our study in Melbourne. 🔗 For more info visit https://bit.ly/47JVRIl

A new collaborative study has developed HIV‑seq, a tool that profiles rare HIV‑infected cells in people living with HIV. The breakthrough offers new insight into how these cells behave and could help guide future treatment strategies. https://bit.ly/3OQVhmA

New tool reveals the secrets of HIV-infected cells  - Doherty Institute

Developed by Gladstone scientists, HIV-seq could uncover new opportunities for treating HIV.

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A world-first portable point-of-care test detects syphilis, herpes, chlamydia & gonorrhoea simultaneously in under an hour — helping reduce misdiagnosis and cut transmission. https://bit.ly/4bjVlnl @unimelb.edu.au

New rapid test to diagnose syphilis and other STIs in under an hour 

A world-first portable point-of-care test that detects four common sexually transmitted infections at once, in under an hour. The test, which detects syphilis, a high-burden infection, could significantly reduce transmission and improve access to timely treatment. 

doherty.edu.au

Your generation can fight Chlamydia. Ready to help? Chlamydia is one of the most common STIs worldwide. In more than 80% of cases, individuals have no symptoms and are unaware they are infected. If you are aged 18-29 years, you may be eligible to join this vaccine trial. 🔗 https://bit.ly/4ajaZ1Z