Viral infections remain a major global health threat, responsible for seasonal outbreaks, chronic diseases, and emerging pandemics. Despite advances in virology, there is still a lack of effective antiviral therapies for many viral pathogens, and resistance to existing antivirals is an increasing concern. The COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted the need for rapid, reliable, and translational preclinical models to accelerate drug and vaccine development.

Viral septicemia, also referred to as systemic viral infection or viremia, occurs when viruses spread through the bloodstream, leading to multi-organ involvement and severe disease. Such infections can trigger overwhelming immune activation, cytokine storms, and high mortality, as seen in emerging pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 or severe influenza strains. Despite the clinical importance, treatment options remain limited, and there is an urgent need for effective antivirals, immunotherapies, and vaccines.