Medieval Manuscripts Hold Genetic Record of Ancient Sheeppox Virus

Scientists are increasingly turning to historical archives and library collections as unconventional reservoirs of genetic material that could shed light on past disease outbreaks. Recent studies have demonstrated that paper, parchment, and other preservation media used in libraries worldwide can retain fragments of viral and bacterial DNA, offering a complementary source of information to traditional archaeological specimens such as bones or teeth.

Researchers are now systematically sampling documents ranging from 19th‑century medical journals to personal correspondence stored in national libraries, employing advanced sequencing techniques to recover and analyze degraded nucleic acids. Early results have identified genetic signatures of influenza, smallpox and other pathogens that correspond to known epidemic periods, while also revealing previously undocumented strains. By integrating these findings with historical records, scientists hope to reconstruct transmission pathways, assess pathogen evolution, and improve models for future outbreak preparedness.