In 2015 and 2016, the world was startled by a sudden and massive outbreak of the zikavirus in Latin America. The virus is transmitted by the tijgermug and causes in most cases, no or only mild symptoms. If a pregnant woman has the infection, the development of the brain of the fruit is affected, which can lead to microcephaly or small brain, with mental retardation and even death. The outbreak of the virus in Latin America is currently extinguished, but may, in areas where the tijgermug present again at any time break out.
Medical Researchers of the Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy of the Rega Institute (KU Leuven) under the guidance of Johan Neyts for the first time a promising vaccine developed against the zikavirus. Tests in pregnant mice that were affected by the virus being in the meantime, that the vaccine provides complete protection for the growing pups. Reports that the KU Leuven.