Most of us have Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) hiding in our bodies. You may know it as the cause of glandular fever or “kissing disease”. But more research is suggesting that it can turn our immune systems against us to cause autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis or lupus.
So, what is the virus doing in our bodies - and can we do anything about it? James is joined by Dr Claire Shannon-Lowe, a virologist at the University of Birmingham, and Dr Patrick Kearns from the University of Edinburgh, a neurologist and epidemiologist.And we delve into the world of echolocation. Bats hunt at night by making pulses of sounds and listening to the echoes so they can build a picture of the world around them in total darkness - and it's a technique some people with visual impairment use to explore the world.A team at the University of East Anglia has been testing how well humans can pick up these skills, so James pays a visit to have a go...Presenter: James Gallagher
Producers: Gerry Holt, Tom Bonnett & Thomas Hunt
Production coordinator: Stuart Laws
Content editor: Ilan Goodman
Gesundheit, Wellness & Beauty
Inside Health Folgen
Series that demystifies health issues, separating fact from fiction and bringing clarity to conflicting health advice.
Folgen von Inside Health
370 Folgen
-
Folge vom 10.02.2026Unlocking the mystery of Epstein-Barr Virus
-
Folge vom 03.02.2026Should all babies have their genome sequenced at birth?This week we’re looking at government plans to start sequencing the DNA of every newborn baby in England within the next decade. Each newborn would undergo whole genome sequencing to assess their risk of hundreds of diseases, under NHS plans.It promises a revolution in spotting disease early - but are there also risks?And use of nicotine pouches is rising, especially among young men. But these little sachets that fit under the top lip aren’t yet regulated – so what do we know about the potential harms? Finally, as the cold weather continues, James gets a lesson in walking like a penguin to see if it helps avoid trips, slips and falls… Presenter: James Gallagher Producers: Tom Bonnett, Alice-Lipscombe-Southwell and Thomas Hunt Production coordinator: Stuart Laws Content editor: Ilan Goodman
-
Folge vom 27.01.2026Where does air pollution go inside our body?James Gallagher stands by four lanes of traffic and inhales exhaust fumes all to see if he can see air pollution in his body. He looks at an intriguing finding that an mRNA vaccine might benefit people being treated with immunotherapy for some cancers and could we be on the cusp of a holy grail in dentistry? A breakthrough could mean we will soon be able to replace the enamel on our teeth. Presenter: James Gallagher Producer: Tom Bonnett Researcher: Thom Hunt Editor: Ilan Goodman
-
Folge vom 20.01.2026Can working up a sweat in a sauna improve your health?Saunas are popping up all over the country, with many people claiming they relax muscles and help ease stress. But what does the science say? This week, James Gallagher travels to Môr A Sawna in Jackson’s Bay, Barry, where he treats himself to a sauna session and undergoes a number of physical tests to find out what benefits the sweaty heat could offer. Next up, James visits The Advanced Neuropathies Centre in Cardiff to speak with Professor Liam Gray, a surgeon who is leading a pioneering treatment for Huntington’s disease. Presenter: James Gallagher Producers: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell and Gerry Holt Researcher: Tom Hunt Editor: Ilan Goodman Production coordinator: Stuart LawsThis episode was produced in partnership with The Open University.