Test developed by USP researchers can help in combating disease and preventing endemic areas
Researchers from USP (University of São Paulo) a test capable of differentiating Zika infections and the 4 dengue virus serotypes. The new method identifies individuals and populations without immunity against the types of circulating viruses, allowing the implementation of directed preventive measures, according to the Agency FAPESP.
In addition to its public health application, the test offers a solution to evaluate the immune status of healthy people, but previously exposed to viruses, and those immunized with vaccines in use in the country. This includes the possibility of assessing the immunity of people of fertile and pregnant age, the main risk groups for Zika, without concern for cross -reactivity with antibodies generated after infection by dengue virus serotypes.
Dengue is the largest global prevalence arbovirosis caused by a Flavivirus with 4 distinct serotypes. The similarity between antigens of these viruses and Zika makes serological diagnosis difficult. To solve the problem, the researchers focused on virus protein fragments.
The method was initially validated in mice blood samples and later in blood serum samples in São Paulo during the Zika epidemic in Brazil, from 2015 to 2017.
“We have a powerful tool for monitoring the serological immunity of anyone exposed to these viruses, particularly in populations living in endemic areas for dengue and zika or who have taken or intend to take one of the vaccines available for dengue prevention.” explains Luís Carlos de Souza Ferreira, professor at USP and research coordinator, as published by Agency FAPESP.
