Galveston scientists discover Zika mutation that could trigger a new outbreak

KTRK TV, April 20, 2022

A UTMB professor says the virus can be especially harmful to pregnant women since the infection can cause birth defects. Dr. Pei-Yong Shi, a professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at UTMB Galveston, says the virus is carried by the bite of infected mosquitoes. It can be especially harmful to pregnant women since the infection can cause certain birth defects. "That virus can infect the fetus's brain, leading to the baby born with a small head.” Austin-based KXAN also reported on UTMB’s research that found a single mutation in the Zika virus could lead to a “major outbreak.” The Indian news outlet Sakshi Post also reported this news.