The World Health Organization reported two cases of a rare virus in an eastern Indian state on Thursday.

While only two people reportedly contracted the virus, health officials are concerned because of the high mortality rate if it spreads.

A viral infection can trigger a neurological disease similar to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in mice with a specific genetic profile, providing evidence for how genetics and environment may interact to cause the disorder, according to a new study.

Two emerging pathogens with animal origins - influenza D virus and canine coronavirus - have so far been quietly flying under the radar, but researchers warn conditions are ripe for the viruses to spread more widely among humans.