Zika virus was first isolated in the year 1947 from the blood of sentinel rhesus macaque of Uganda. The virus was introduced in Brazil from Pacific Islands and thereon spread rapidly. It was considered the first infectious disease to have birth defects. This review highlights the transmission, clinical aspects, clinical features, diagnosis, and possible implications of the virus for the dental team.

Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate microbiological and clinical effects of a chitosan chlorhexidine (CH) mouthrinse on plaque control. Materials and methods:Subjects were divided into three groups. Group I included 15 subjects who used 0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), group II included 15 subjects who used 2% chitosan (CH) solution, and group III involves 15 subjects who used 0.2% chlorhexidine/2% CH combination. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and probing depth (PD) were recorded at the baseline, on day 0, and after 4 days. Supragingival plaque samples were subjected for microbiological evaluation. Statistical analysis was done using statistical software IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21. Results:Plaque index was lowest in group I at day 0, while it was highest in group III. At day 4, PI was highest in group II, while lowest in group III. Gingival index was lowest in group I and highest in group II at day 0, and lowest in group I and highest in group III at day 4. There was no statistical difference in Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) Conclusion:Both chitosan and CH were found to be effective in controlling plaque. However, a combination of both provides even better results.Clinical significance: The present study showed that chitosan can be used as an antiplaque agent.

This study evaluates the remineralizing potential of novamin and TCP on initial carious lesions.

INTRODUCTION. In the present times, natural and man-made threats have questioned our existence on this planet. Health care professionals need to be aware of all the procedures to follow during such an event that threatens to paralyze the entire community and should be able to respond effectively. OBJECTIVE. The present study was conducted to assess the willingness and attitude of dental professionals to render help during any disaster or catastrophic event. MATERIAL AND METHODS. The present cross-sectional study among 480 subjects who were residing in Tricity (Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula). Informed consent was taken from all the subjects. Systematic random sampling methodology was employed for selection for study sample. The study utilized a self-designed close-ended questionnaire written in English and verified by experts. The questionnaire was divided into two parts to collect the required information. The data was analyzed using SPSS software version 21; chi-square test and multiple regression analysis were used to arrive at the results. RESULTS. More than 85% of subjects had awareness regarding natural and manmade disasters. A positive response was given by 79.2% of subjects regarding willingness to help during disaster. Educational qualification of subjects was significantly associated with attitude towards some aspects of disaster response (p<0.05). Postgraduate subjects and subjects who were academicians were more willing to render help (OR: 2.18 & 3.65 respectively). CONCLUSIONS. The study emphasizes the need for educational and training programs for dentists’ regarding disaster management. A short course on emergency and disaster management can be included in undergraduate and postgraduate dental curriculum.