Medieval manuscripts are "biological time capsules" for deadly sheeppox virus

Researchers analyzing medieval manuscripts have identified genetic material from sheeppox virus preserved in the parchment, according to a study examining historical documents. The virus DNA was detected in animal skin used to create the pages, providing a record of disease presence in past livestock populations. Similar viral genetic material may exist in other historical manuscripts and archives worldwide, preserved in the parchment and binding materials made from animal hides.

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