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Zika Virus Pathogenesis: From Early Case Reports to Epidemics
Ryan D Pardy1,2, Martin J Richer3,4
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada. ryan.pardy@mail.mcgill.ca.
Viruses
|September 25, 2019
Summary
Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks have increased since 2007, causing severe neurological issues like Guillain-Barré syndrome and congenital Zika syndrome (CZS). Research is crucial for developing ZIKV vaccines and therapies to prevent these debilitating symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV), a Flaviviridae family member, was poorly understood for decades.
- Since 2007, ZIKV has caused severe outbreaks, linked to neurological conditions.
- Recent studies have clarified ZIKV's complications, spread, and persistence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on ZIKV pathogenesis and clinical outcomes.
- To highlight the impact of ZIKV infection on adults and during pregnancy.
- To emphasize the need for ZIKV vaccines and therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on ZIKV outbreaks and associated symptoms.
- Analysis of studies detailing ZIKV's effects on different tissues and patient groups.
- Synthesis of research on congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) risk factors and early childhood impact.
Main Results:
- ZIKV infection is associated with Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults.
- Congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) poses significant risks during pregnancy and early childhood.
- Understanding viral spread and persistence is improving.
Conclusions:
- Further research into ZIKV pathogenesis is essential.
- Developing effective vaccination and therapeutic strategies is a priority.
- Preventing severe neurological symptoms and CZS requires a deeper understanding of ZIKV.
