3D Structure Revealed: Scientists Finally Know What Zika Virus Looks Like

The incredible image above is the 3D structure of the Zika virus, which has only just been revealed. The finding could help scientists determine how the virus is transmitted and, hopefully, how to prevent infection.

The report, published today in Science, describes the virus as a spherical structure resembling that of the dengue virus and other viruses in its genus, known as "flaviviruses." But the 3D rendition also reveals some important differences. For example, scientists found the virus’ outer shell is slightly different from that of other viruses. This could help researchers attack the virus as a whole, or at the very least, prevent it from attaching to human cells.

Most people who are infected with Zika don't become ill; only 20 percent of infected persons develop symptoms, which resemble the flu and last around five days. But an outbreak of the virus in Brazil has caused concern among health officials who think Zika is responsible for different types of birth defects, including one that affects the brain size of newborns, microcephaly. Researchers have also linked the virus to a severe neurological disorder that causes temporary paralysis, Guillain-Barré syndrome. And even though Zika is mostly transmitted through mosquito bites, some people have become infected throughsexual contact, which means that avoiding mosquitoes isn't always enough to prevent infection. Because of this, researchers have been trying to find out what makes the virus tick. And now, they finally have a blueprint to work with.

Read on at The Verge