Virologist Luis Enjuanes, Spain's foremost expert on coronaviruses, , is working non-stop. From his laboratory at the CSIC's National Centre for Biotechnology, he is engaged in trying to find, in the shortest time possible, a vaccine to stop the COVID-19 epidemic.

A new study identifies the typical pattern of homeopathy consumers in Spain, based on data from the CIS (Centre for Sociological Research) barometer, published last February. The results show that the profile is that of a middle- or upper-class woman of about 46, with higher education and a progressive political ideology.

Until now, ketamine has been used as a tranquilizer for horses or a hallucinogenic drug, but for some years scientific literature has given it a therapeutic potential for severe depression despite its risks: addiction and psychosis. In specific cases, experts talk about a 'psychoactive' cure. A new study now confirms the rapid action of this substance in depressive and suicidal states.

Measles infections have rebounded. After reaching historical lows in Europe in 2016, last year cases quadrupled with more than 20,000 people affected and 35 deaths. The loss of respect for the disease has propagated unscientific theories that question the importance of vaccination. But the virus does not rest.

Breastfeeding is beneficial for all newborns, but it is essential for premature infants or patients, because it improves their prognosis considerably. However, you cannot always count on it. This is where the generosity of women who donate their milk for creatures that are not theirs comes into play. Spain already has 13 centers that in 2016 distributed almost 7,500 liters to 2,281 babies.

Spanish researchers have clarified doubts over the physical activity recommended during pregnancy. Their work highlights how exercise should be taken not only by healthy, previously active women, but that it is also a good time to adopt a healthy lifestyle. There are clear advantages for both the mother and baby.

Salt is a hidden enemy in children’s diets. So says the conclusion of a study by researchers from the Complutense University of Madrid, which suggests that over 80 % of Spanish schoolchildren consume excess salt; this is associated to greater risk of high blood pressure, osteoporosis and obesity. According to the authors, we first need to know the sources of dietary salt intake before we can reduce it.

For a few years, running has been fashionable. But there is a great difference between the physical demands of running a few kilometres and doing a marathon. Now Spanish researchers have concluded that genetics plays an essential role in success when completing this long distance.

Spanish researchers have estimated the duration of solar radiation exposure required in order to obtain the recommended doses of vitamin D. While in spring and summer 10 to 20 minutes in the sun are enough, in the winter months almost two hours would be needed, therefore for the vast majority of the population it is difficult to achieve the optimal values.

The unpleasant sensation sparked by the nervous system when confronted with a harmful stimulus can be alleviated by blocking a genetic marker that switches off the activity of the neurons involved. Jose Vicente Torres Pérez, a Spanish researcher who works at Imperial College in London, has trialled this innovative pain relief therapy on mice with serious burns. The aim is to use his findings to help burn victims.