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Updated: Mar 14, 2026
Vector Competence Analyses on Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes using Zika Virus
Published on: May 31, 2020
Zika Virus on a Spreading Spree: what we now know that was unknown in the 1950's
1Department of Biological Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI, 49931, USA.
Abstract:
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that is transmitted through the bite of Aedes spp mosquitoes and less predominantly, through sexual intercourse. Prior to 2007, ZIKV was associated with only sporadic human infections with minimal or no clinical manifestations. Recently the virus has caused disease outbreaks from the Pacific Islands, the Americas, and off the coast of West Africa with approximately 1.62 million people suspected to be infected in more than 60 countries around the globe. The recent ZIKV outbreaks have been associated with guillain-barré syndrome, congenital syndrome (microcephaly, congenital central nervous system anomalies), miscarriages, and even death. This review summarizes the path of ZIKV outbreak within the last decade, highlights three novel modes of ZIKV transmission associated with recent outbreaks, and points to the hallmarks of congenital syndrome. The review concludes with a summary of challenges facing ZIKV research especially the control of ZIKV infection in the wake of most recent data showing that anti-dengue virus antibodies enhance ZIKV infection.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks have surged globally since 2007, linked to severe neurological and congenital syndromes. Research faces challenges, including antibody-dependent enhancement of ZIKV infection.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus previously causing mild infections.
- Since 2007, ZIKV outbreaks have spread globally, associated with severe health issues.
- Notable ZIKV-related conditions include Guillain-Barré syndrome and congenital abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the ZIKV outbreak trajectory over the past decade.
- To identify novel ZIKV transmission routes observed in recent epidemics.
- To detail the characteristics of congenital Zika syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of ZIKV outbreaks and transmission.
- Analysis of clinical manifestations and epidemiological data.
- Synthesis of current research challenges and findings.
Main Results:
- ZIKV outbreaks have expanded significantly in geographic reach and impact.
- Three novel transmission pathways have been identified.
- Congenital Zika syndrome presents with specific neurological and developmental anomalies.
- A concerning finding is that anti-dengue antibodies may enhance ZIKV infection.
Conclusions:
- ZIKV poses a significant global health threat due to its expanding outbreaks and severe associated syndromes.
- Understanding novel transmission modes is crucial for effective control strategies.
- Further research is urgently needed, particularly regarding the role of pre-existing antibodies and the development of targeted interventions.
