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Zika Virus

Zika virus

Envelope (E) Pr…Membrane (M) Pr…RNA Core

Description

Zika gained global attention in 2015-2016. While mild for most, it can cause microcephaly and other severe brain defects in babies born to infected mothers.

TypeFlaviviridae

ShapeSpherical icosahedral

Size50 nm

GenomePositive-sense single-stranded RNA

Discovered1947

MortalityVery low for adults; high risk of birth defects during pregnancy

Discovery

Discovered in 1947 by Scientists in the Zika Forest of Uganda

Transmission

Aedes mosquito bites, sexual contact, mother-to-child

Symptoms

Mild feverRashJoint painConjunctivitisMicrocephaly (in newborns)

💊 Treatment / Medicine

Supportive care (fluids, rest, pain relievers)

🛡️ Prevention

Mosquito control, insect repellent, avoiding travel to outbreak areas

💡

Zika was discovered in a monkey in the Zika Forest — 'Zika' actually means 'overgrown' in the Luganda language!

Structural Components

Envelope (E) Protein

Outer layer for cell binding and entry

Membrane (M) Protein

Protects the virus during maturation

RNA Core

Single strand of genetic instructions

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