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Zika Virus & WHO - Page 3

The genetic evolution of Zika virus

An analysis comparing the individual differences between over 40 strains of Zika virus has identified significant changes in both amino acid and nucleotide sequences during the past half-century. The data support a strong divergence between the Asian and African lineages as well as human and mosquito isolates of the virus, and will likely be helpful as researchers flush out how a relatively unknown pathogen led to the current outbreak. Ref. Source 1i.

WHO and Virus Zika

Quick test for Zika effectively detects virus in monkeys

Scientists have developed a low-cost, rapid paper-based diagnostic system for strain-specific detection of the Zika virus, with the goal that it could soon be used in the field to screen blood, urine, or saliva samples. Ref. Source 4w.

Zika Virus & WHO Health & Special Psychology

Why humans (And not mice) are susceptible to Zika

Flaviviruses -- such as Zika, dengue, and yellow fever -- have emerged as human pathogens because of their ability to specifically overcome our anti-viral defenses. In the case of Zika, researchers that one of the virus's seven non-structural proteins (NS5) is singularly responsible for blocking the action of interferons (Proteins that stop viral replication) in human cells, while mouse cells are unaffected. Ref. Source 8r.

Page 3 WHO and Virus Zika

Scientists offer first look at how our cells can 'swallow up and quarantine' Zika

Eight weeks after receiving their first samples of Zika virus, scientists have shown that a very small protein we all have in our bodies, interferon-induced protein 3 (IFITM3), can dramatically reduce the ability of Zika virus to infect human and mouse cells. Ref. Source 2j.

WHO and Virus Zika

I wish I could locate the article, however, residents in some states (I believe the Carolinas and Tennessee) are building bat houses around their property to keep down the mosquito population and thereby reduce the chances of getting Zika and other blood born illnesses that come from mosquito.

Zika Virus & WHO

For me Zika is the new malaria. My comparison has to do with how malaria spread years ago and killed many until they developed a vaccine. I think Zika is scary because of the way it can be passed on to people and because an unborn child can get it too.

Zika Virus & WHO - Page 3

Potential drug target identified for Zika, similar viruses

A single gene pathway that is vital for Zika and other flaviviruses to spread infection between cells has now been identified by researchers. Further, they showed that shutting down a single gene in this pathway -- in both human and insect cells -- does not negatively affect the cells themselves and renders flaviviruses unable to leave the infected cell, curbing the spread of infection. Ref. Source 5u.

Zika Virus & WHO Psychology Special & Health - Page 3

Zika's potential threat to world blood supply deserves study and action


Blood safety researchers say it is highly likely that the mosquito-borne Zika virus can be transmitted through blood transfusions and are calling for an evidence-based approach to protecting the blood supply from the threat of Zika virus according to experts. The researchers say among several possible steps that could be taken to mitigate safety concerns: deferring blood donors who have symptoms of the infection, developing better blood screening tests, and finding ways to reduce the pathogen. Ref. Source 9v.