Science

The Zika Virus is a transmissible disease caused by mosquitoes. For months, this virus has been steadily monitored by researchers in the hope of  an explanation for this abrupt outbreak. Pregnant women are the most affected by this virus, as it is known to cause serious defects to newborn infants, which could additionally cause temporary paralyzing disorders. American’s especially, have been on the ‘edge,’ and are questioning health care professionals about the precautions they should take. Genhong Cheng, a microbiology professor at UCLA, believes the changes seen in countries like Asia, could help shed light on the permissible growth in North and South America. Though, scientist are baffled by the prolonged replication of this virus, they now understand the newfound viral persistence; caused by the invasion of the immune system and tissues. Overall, the ultimate goal of tracking the genetic mutations within the Zika virus, is to better understand how it is transmitted from person to person and causes different types of disease. In the second article, a 23-year-old victorian woman, contracted a fatal brain disease from a measles infection, after not receiving a vaccine. Her case wasn’t brought to anyone’s attention until she suffered a seizure. Prior to the seizure, she was also found to have impaired speech and movement, bodily jerks, and lack of bladder control. After moving from Australia from Phillippines, she was diagnosed with ‘subacute sclerosing panencephalitis;’ a disease connected with measles. This case is extremely important because it shows how vaccines can possibly prevent diseases.

The obvious difference between these two articles is that they are about different diseases: Zika and Measles. The similarities between the two, are that they both talk about diseases that could possibly affect others in the future. If these two diseases aren’t looked upon I believe that, many people will die. So it’s encouraged precautions and attention are brought to both.

Links:
(Zika Virus): http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/zika-virus-outbreak/zika-virus-mutation-may-explain-spread-study-n556741

(Brain Disease): http://www.9news.com.au/health/2016/04/18/00/08/brain-disease-case-stresses-measles-danger