Antibodies Protect Fetuses against Zika (IMAGE) Washington University School of Medicine Caption A researcher holds a tray of Zika virus growing in animal cells at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. There is no treatment available to block Zika virus in a pregnant woman from infecting her fetus and potentially causing severe birth defects. But researchers have identified a human antibody that prevents, in pregnant mice, the fetus from becoming infected and the placenta from being damaged. The antibody also protects adult mice from Zika disease. Credit Huy Mach Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.