In Brief: Researchers focus on Zika

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An infected Aedes species mosquito can spread the Zika virus.
An infected Aedes species mosquito can spread the Zika virus.
Image: James Gathany/CDC

    With fear mounting about the spread of the Zika virus, scientists are zeroing in on ways to stop the infection, and two companies will soon test a vaccine.

    Researchers have identified a single gene pathway vital for Zika to spread infection between cells, according to the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
    Shutting down this pathway in both human and insect cells does not negatively affect the cells but renders the virus unable to leave the infected cell, curbing the spread of infection, a news release said.
    The study, published June 17 in Nature, points to a potential drug target for Zika. It could also help health officials deal with similar viruses.
    Inovio Pharmaceuticals Inc. and GeneOne Life Science Inc. announced June 20 that they had received approval for a human trial to evaluate a vaccine to prevent infection.
    Zika is primarily transmitted through a bite by an infected Aedes species mosquito. Common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis, according to the CDC. While the effect is usually mild, infection during pregnancy can cause severe birth defects. 

VOTERS WANT HEALTH FOCUS: Voters want presidential candidates to concentrate on children's health.
    Indeed, more than 50 percent questioned in a recent survey identified abuse and neglect as a policy priority, according to the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health at the University of Michigan. The report was based on a national sample of more than 2,000 adults, all asked to identify the top three areas of children's health for presidential candidates to address.
    More than half said alcohol and smoking, along with hunger and obesity. Approximately one-third also prioritized access to mental health services and the health effects of poverty. One-quarter said candidates should focus on gun injuries among children.
    In an April survey, 55 percent of adults said that the mental-emotional health of children today is worse than when they were children. Similarly, 42 percent said the physical health of children is worse, and 65 percent perceive "less quality family time" compared with their own childhood.

Related:

    Virus poses international health threat 

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