Meet Zika virus!
Zika virus (flaviviridae family) is a small (50nm), spherical, enveloped virus carrying an RNA genome (10kb).
While the particle is spherical (because it is enveloped), the placement of the E proteins throughout the membrane give it an icosahedral-like symmetry. The E proteins form dimers and are used to bind cell receptors. The M proteins, also within the membrane, stabilize the E protein dimers. Finally, within the envelope the C protein forms a nucleocapsid around the RNA genome.
Zika virus was named after the Zika Forrest of Uganda from which it was originally discovered in 1947. Zika virus is carried and spread by mosquitos (the day-time active Aedes mosquitos).
Zika virus typically causes mild to moderate illness in humans – fever, eye redness, headaches, joint pain – which resolves in 2-7 days. More concerningly, mother-to-child transmission has been shown to cause microcephaly and other brain deformities in babies. The most recent epidemic in 2016-2017 led health officials to recommend pregnant women avoid the most affected areas. It has also been connected to the development of Guillain-Barré Syndrome.
Prevention involves active use of bug repellant and seasonal avoidance of heavily affected regions if possible. There is no specific treatment for Zika virus and vaccines are in development.
Posted on Instagram on March 8, 2021.