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Zika Virus Infectious Cell Culture System and the In Vitro Prophylactic Effect of Interferons
Published on: August 23, 2016
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Current Zika virus epidemiology and recent epidemics
S Ioos1, H-P Mallet2, I Leparc Goffart3
1Institut de veille sanitaire, département de coordination des alertes et des regions, 12, rue du Val d'Osne, 94415 St-Maurice, France.
Medecine Et Maladies Infectieuses
|July 9, 2014
Summary
Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks in Micronesia and French Polynesia highlight its potential for widespread transmission. This emergent flavivirus can cause severe neurological complications and poses a risk to new regions.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, was first identified in Uganda in 1947.
- Sporadic cases were reported until major outbreaks in Yap (2007) and French Polynesia (2013).
- Concurrent dengue virus circulation and severe neurological complications were noted during the French Polynesia outbreak.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise awareness regarding the emergent threat of Zika virus (ZIKV).
- To highlight the potential for ZIKV to spread to new geographical areas.
- To underscore the need for further research into ZIKV reservoirs, transmission, and clinical spectrum.
Main Methods:
- Virological surveillance and entomological studies were used to track ZIKV activity.
- Diagnosis is confirmed through viral genome detection via RT-PCR and viral isolation.
- Clinical case reporting and epidemiological analysis documented outbreak patterns and complications.
Main Results:
- Large-scale ZIKV outbreaks occurred in previously unaffected areas within a decade.
- The French Polynesia outbreak reported a high number of cases with neurological and autoimmune complications.
- ZIKV presents a dengue-like syndrome, with severe disease noted for the first time.
Conclusions:
- ZIKV has demonstrated potential for rapid spread, posing a significant public health risk.
- The virus could spread to regions with Aedes mosquito vectors, including Southern Europe.
- Prevention strategies must focus on mosquito control and personal protection measures.
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