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Ancient DNA Reveals Plague's Origins and Ongoing Threat

8/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Scientists identified Yersinia pestis as the cause of the Plague of Justinian using ancient DNA from a mass grave in Jerash, Jordan.
The study found nearly identical strains, suggesting a rapid outbreak between 550-660 C.E.
Results indicate pandemics may have multiple origins rather than a single lineage.
Plague continues to pose a health risk, with recent cases reported in the U.S.

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Story summary

Scientists identified Yersinia pestis as the cause of the Plague of Justinian using ancient DNA from a mass grave in Jerash, Jordan.
The study found nearly identical strains, suggesting a rapid outbreak between 550-660 C.E.
Results indicate pandemics may have multiple origins rather than a single lineage.
Plague continues to pose a health risk, with recent cases reported in the U.S.