Scientists have discovered through new research that not all viruses are harmful to human health; in fact, some may be beneficial.
According to a research paper published in the medical journal Microbial Biotechnology, scientists led by Dr Jack Robinson from Flinders University have concluded that not all bacteria or viruses are dangerous.
The study states that, just as not all microbes cause illness, some are essential for maintaining good health.
Dr Robinson wrote that emerging evidence shows exposure to diverse environmental microbiomes and naturally occurring biochemical substances can also improve health outcomes.
He noted that rather than viewing diversity as something to be eliminated, modern approaches recognise that diverse ecosystems play a crucial role in creating healthy environments.
He explained that beneficial microbes support human health by helping regulate the immune system, metabolism, disease prevention, stress reduction and overall environmental stability.
Dr Robinson added that for nearly a century, airborne microbes and chemical compounds were largely regarded as threats associated with infection, disease and pollution. However, this new research highlights an invisible biological diversity that actively contributes to both human and environmental health.
The study found that microbes are beneficial for skin and reproductive health and also contribute to mental wellbeing. Other advantages include improved digestion of nutrients, reduced inflammation and better blood sugar control.
Researchers explained that the vast collection of microbes present in the human body is known as the “microbiome”. These microbes exist in various forms, including fungi, algae, bacteria, viruses, protozoa, archaea and prions.
Dr Robinson said that restoring healthy microbes could deliver multiple health benefits. He emphasised that microbes are vital for human health as they produce vitamins, aid digestion and train the immune system to defend against disease-causing pathogens.
