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Medical Oddities: A Vaccine With a Foam Head?

A week of bold ideas: drinkable vaccines, unrealistic TV CPR, yoga-assisted detox, and meat-heavy math.

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Chuck Buck, a virologist at the US National Cancer Institute, is pioneering a novel oral vaccine against BK polyomavirus using genetically engineered yeast as a carrier. This virus can lead to severe health issues in immunosuppressed patients. Animal studies showed promising antibody responses with injectable forms. Buck's self-experimentation with this yeast-infused beer resulted in increased antibodies, igniting discussions on vaccine innovation. Concurrently, a study found that TV depictions of CPR often misrepresent life-saving techniques. Additionally, a clinical trial indicated that introducing yoga alongside standard treatment could benefit patients undergoing opioid withdrawal. Lastly, a large UK study revealed tea's inability to mitigate the obesity risk associated with high meat consumption.

Original Source(s)

Medical Oddities: A Vaccine With a Foam Head?

A week of bold ideas: drinkable vaccines, unrealistic TV CPR, yoga-assisted detox, and meat-heavy math.

  • by Teraya Smith

  • January 14, 2026

  • 5 min

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