27 Jun Mosquito Bites may Worsen Viral Infections
Even with Zika rising in numbers, to most of us mosquito bites are just annoying nuisances. Most times you’re bitten, you’re itchy for a few days. Then it’s out of sight and mind regarding the bite. However, scientists at the University of Leeds in England have discovered a possibility that the inflammation and irritation caused by a mosquito bite may make viruses easier to replicate, thus increasing the odds of viral infection.
In their experiment, scientists at the University of Leeds infected mice with Zika, dengue and other viral diseases either through injections or mosquito bites. They found that the group of mice that had been bitten by mosquitoes showed higher rates of viral infections than the group that had been injected. These findings have lead researchers to believe that the mosquito bites themselves may make it easier to get viral infections.
This may be because when a mosquito bites a victim, its saliva creates an immune response that involves white blood cells. When the mice were infected with the viruses through mosquito bites, scientists found that the virus infected some white blood cells and began replicating. When the mice were injected with the virus, no white blood cells were involved in this process, which is why they believe the virus had a more difficult time replicating.
The experiment has yet to be replicated in humans, but scientists are hoping that these findings will bring us closer being able to better prevent the spread of mosquito-borne illnesses. With viruses like Zika plaguing South America, Central America and the Caribbean, any new information is beneficial. Our team at NET effect will continue to keep you updated on breaking developments as the Zika epidemic continues. In the meantime, purchase NET effect and keep yourself safe.