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Updated: Jan 19, 2026

Rescue and Characterization of Recombinant Virus from a New World Zika Virus Infectious Clone
Published on: June 7, 2017
Zika Virus: A Global Public Health Menace: A Comprehensive Update
Shamimul Hasan1, Shazina Saeed2, Rajat Panigrahi3
1Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Faculty of Dentistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a RNA virus and belongs to genus Flavivirus and family Flaviviridae. The virus was first discovered from a febrile primate from the Zika forests of Uganda in 1947 and the first human case was documented in 1954. The nonspecific clinical manifestations of ZIKV pose diagnostic dilemmas and delays early and effective treatment. Dental professionals should have a thorough knowledge about the virus and should follow standard infection control measures as the virus has been demonstrated in various body secretions (including salivary secretions). The disease is managed by symptomatic and supportive care and no vaccine exist till date. Recent ZIKV outbreaks and increase association of microcephaly with congenital ZIKV and neurological complications (Guillain-Barré syndrome) has drawn global public health attention. The World Health Organization declared it a public health emergency of international concern in 2016. This review article provides a detailed overview on ZIKV; it is clinical and oral manifestations, diagnostic aids, differential diagnosis, preventive aspects, and management protocol.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection presents diagnostic challenges due to nonspecific symptoms. Dental professionals require knowledge of ZIKV, its oral manifestations, and infection control for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Virology and Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV), a Flavivirus, was first identified in Uganda in 1947.
- Nonspecific clinical signs of ZIKV infection complicate early diagnosis and treatment.
- Recent outbreaks linked ZIKV to microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome, prompting global health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Zika virus.
- To detail clinical and oral manifestations of ZIKV.
- To discuss diagnostic, preventive, and management strategies for ZIKV.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes existing literature on Zika virus.
- Information was gathered on ZIKV's epidemiology, clinical presentation, and oral findings.
- Diagnostic aids, differential diagnoses, and management protocols were examined.
Main Results:
- ZIKV diagnosis is challenging due to vague symptoms.
- Oral manifestations of ZIKV are noted.
- No vaccine is currently available; management is supportive.
Conclusions:
- Dental professionals must be aware of ZIKV and implement infection control measures due to its presence in secretions.
- Understanding ZIKV's multifaceted impact is crucial for public health preparedness.
- Continued research is needed for effective ZIKV prevention and treatment.
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