A Mummy's DNA May Help Solve The Mystery Of The Origins Of Smallpox

The surprise find of smallpox DNA in a child mummy from the 17th century could help scientists start to trace the mysterious history of this notorious virus.

Smallpox currently only exists in secure freezers, after a global vaccination campaign eradicated the virus in the late 1970s. But much about this killer remains unknown, including its origins.

Now scientists have the oldest complete set of smallpox genes, after they went hunting for viral DNA in a sample of skin from a mummified young child, probably a boy, that was found in a crypt underneath a Lithuanian church.

Download the ebook version of Lonely Planet's Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania - Lithuania (Chapter)

Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania - Lithuania

A land of wood and water, proud, independent Lithuania (Lietuva) is fast being recognised as one of Europe’s gems. Southernmost of the Baltic states, it’s a pocket-sized republic that’s a nature lover’s delight, yet lacks nothing in urban excitement.

- wander the backstreets of the beautiful baroque capital, Vilnius, looking for that perfect bar or bistro

- head to Curonian Spit to spend time cycling, swimming in the Baltic Sea or exploring hardy human settlements

- lose yourself in the whispering rushes, teeming birdlife and perfect serenity of the Nemunas Delta

Coverage includes: Understand Lithuania, Lithuania Today, History, The People, Basketball in Lithuania, The Arts: Contemporary Crafts, Literature, Cinema & TV, Music, Visual Arts and Theatre, Food & Drink, Directory A-Z, Transport, Vilnius & around, Paneriai, Trakai, Centre of Europe, Kernavė, Eastern & Southern Lithuania, Aukštaitija National Park, Visaginas & Ignalina Nuclear Power Station, Labanoras Regional Park, Molėtai, Utena & around, Druskininkai, Dzūkija National Park, Central Lithuania, Kaunas, Birštonas, Šiauliai, Radviliškis & around, Panevėžys, Biržai, Anykščiai, Western Lithuania, Klaipėda, Curonian Spit National Park, Nemunas Delta, Palanga & around, and Žemaitija National Park.

You can pick and choose from complete guides and individual chapters, and download them to any device you like.

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