menu_open Columnists
Thomas Jeffries

Thomas Jeffries

The Conversation

We use cookies to provide some features and experiences in QOSHE

More information  .  Close

Are petting zoos safe?

Petting zoos can be a lot of fun for all the family. But a recent tragic case reminds us there are infection risks.

03.09.2026 10

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

The threat of biological warfare is real – a new book describes the potential devastation

Biological War tells the story of a hypothetical but realistic pathogen that quickly causes anarchy and mass casualties around the world.

31.08.2026 20

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

What you need to know about the Ebola outbreak that has the WHO concerned

While other forms of Ebola can be prevented with a vaccine, none are currently available to prevent this rare strain.

18.05.2026 30

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

What is hantavirus, the disease that has killed 3 cruise ship passengers?

Authorities are racing to contain a suspected outbreak of a rare respiratory disease. A microbiologist explains what it is and how it spreads.

04.05.2026 40

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

What is Aspergillus, the fungus behind recent hospital deaths?

A common mould has claimed the lives of two people, and left four others seriously ill. Here’s what you need to know.

27.02.2026 30

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

AI has produced 2 new antibiotics to kill ‘superbugs’. It’s promising – but we shouldn’t get too excited yet

This is a significant scientific development, but several hurdles remain before we might see these antibiotics available for use.

20.08.2025 80

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

A person in the US has died from pneumonic plague. It’s not just a disease of history

But today it’s rare – and can be effectively treated with antibiotics.

15.07.2025 30

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries

What is aflatoxin, the toxic chemical behind Coles’ peanut butter recall?

Aflatoxin can cause serious damage to the liver, including cancer. But contamination recalls are rare.

02.07.2025 30

The Conversation

Thomas Jeffries