Neanderthals and Humans Interbreeding- First Solid Evidence

Humans mated with their now-extinct relatives, Neanderthals much earlier and more frequently than it was earlier presumed, a new gene study has revealed. The Neanderthals were a species or subspecies of archaic humans in the genus Homo.

According to the study, traces of human DNA found in Neanderthal genome clearly suggest that we started relating with our extinct relatives approximately 100,000 years ago.

One evidence linking to this claim is the ancient remains of a female Neanderthal found in a remote cave located in the Altai Mountains in Siberia. A comprehensive genetic analysis conducted revealed that bits of human DNA were found within her genome, thereby providing evidence that interspecies mating actually took place 100,000 years ago.

Intermingling First Took Place in the Middle East

The recent study further reveals that the Neanderthal-human mating apparently took place in the Middle East, not in Europe as it had earlier been suspected. This was shortly after they left Africa and spread to the rest of the world, about 60,000 years ago.

These findings did not come off as a surprise to Erik Trinkhaus, an anthropologist whose earlier claims of Neanderthal-modern human interbreeding found to contradict DNA evidence, appear to have been validated by the new gene study.

According to Trinkhaus, “They have finally seen the light...because it has been obvious to many of us that this actually happened.” The anthropologist further claims that it's highly possible that most living humans have much more DNA than the new gene study suggests.

According to him, 1%-4% is minimum- it could be 10%, 20%, or even more.

The new gene study actually showed that Neaderthal DNA is 99.7% identical to that of humans compared to for example, 98.8% of modern humans and chimps. This is sure evidence that modern humans have such a closely related genetically, which further proves the possibility of mating.

The study also revealed that all modern ethnic groups in exception of Africans, carry some traces of Neanderthal DNA in their genomes. This was quite puzzling considering that the non-extinct human species was thought to have originated from Africa- although no fossil evidence was found.

This is clear indicator that modern humans were actually having sex with Neanderthals outside Africa 100,000 years ago, specifically because they were not found there. They had left the continent way before the large dispersal that took place about 40,000 years ago.

This revelation actually sheds some light on the history of human migration.

The study also found that although the Chinese and Melanesians are closely related to Neanderthals, the species never inhabited China or Papua New Guinea. It could be that the human migration played a huge role in this.

It’s not actually known how these matings happened as there are many possibilities ranging from one group stealing females or raiding another, peaceful exchanges of partners to adopting orphaned or abandoned babies.

All in all, regardless of how it happened, it's pretty exciting to learn that we at least have a strong connection with our now-extinct relatives.

Genital Herpes - Learn about its Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Genital Herpes is a highly contagious sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus commonly affects the genitals, cervix, and skin in various parts of the body. Because it’s highly contagious, the virus easily spreads from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, and even oral sex. The HSV virus passes easily through the moist skin lining your genitals, anal region, and mouth. The virus can also spread easily by sharing sex toys.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus including Type 1 HSV and Type 2 HSV and both cause genital herpes.

Genital Herpes Symptoms

Most people usually have no idea they have the virus because they may not show any symptoms. When present, the symptoms might show a few days to a couple of weeks prior to infection. Some people do not show any symptoms until months or years after becoming infected.

Common symptoms of genital herpes include;

• Small blisters around the genitals which break to form shallow, painful ulcers that heal in one or two weeks
• Flu-like symptoms with symptoms such as headache, feeling unwell, swollen lymph nodes, pain in the back and legs
• Tiny cracks in the skin with or without tingling or itching
• Redness or a distinct rash
• Pain and swelling in the genital area
• Pain and difficulty passing urine
• Recurrence Symptoms

In some people, the signs and symptoms of genital herpes may recur on and off for years. There are people who experience many episodes every year.

Common symptoms of recurrent genital herpes include;

• Itchiness, burning, or tingling where the infection first entered your body
• Pain in your lower back, legs, and buttocks

Recurrence is known to be triggered by a number of factors include friction in the genital area, stress, being unwell, drinking too much alcohol, surgery on the genital area, weakened immune system, and exposure to UV rays. Unlike the original outbreak, recurrences are much less painful and sores tend to heal faster.

Genital Herpes Treatment

Although there is no cure for this infection, various treatment options are often used to alleviate the symptoms. The symptoms can be controlled using certain antiviral medications. The doctor may also prescribe painkillers for the painful ulcers. Some people find relief using ice packs, bathing in warm, salty water, and applying some medicated cream or lotion if urination is painful.

Genital Herpes Risk Factors

You risk of contracting genital herpes if you:

• Have unprotected sex with different partners
• Have had an STI before
• Started engaging in sex at a young age
• Are a woman- Women are more likely to become infected with HSV than men

Genital Herpes Prevention

To minimize your risk of becoming infected with HSV;

• Always use condoms when having sex
• Avoid having sex with multiple partners
• Avoid kissing or oral sex if you have a cold sore around your mouth
• Avoid sharing sex toys

NB; If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, it's highly advisable to discuss this with your doctor to prevent newborn infection.

The fact that genital herpes has no cure can be devastating, especially because the symptoms keep recurring. The moment you notice the above-mentioned symptoms, be sure to get treated fast and take the necessary prevention measures.