Immune to Every Virus? Science Says It’s Possible

What if you were immune to all viruses?

A small number of people carry a rare genetic mutation that causes their bodies to produce interferons, virus-blocking proteins, all the time, keeping them immune without activating the rest of the immune system. Inspired by this natural defense, scientists are now testing treatments that can temporarily turn on the same response in others. Early results show it can protect human and animal cells from viruses like HIV, Influenza, and Zika for days at a time. If successful in full-body trials, this breakthrough could transform how we fight viral diseases.