Factors found to affect motor function in congenital Zika syndrome were the presence of severe malformations of cortical development and small head circumference at birth.
Pregnant women placed a high premium on clinical evidence when considering whether or not to participate in a hypothetic clinical trial of a Zika virus vaccine.
Since 2015, California has seen many travel-related Zika virus cases, and as the population of mosquitos that spread the virus continue to expand across the state, there is a significant risk for new Zika cases.
Approximately 14% of children who were born to mothers with confirmed or possible Zika virus infection during pregnancy were identified during infancy or early childhood as having a Zika-associated birth defect.
In an updated interim guidance, the CDC now recommends that couples wait at least 3 months before attempting to conceive after possible Zika virus exposure in the male.
Diagnostic indicators including conjunctivitis, platelet count, and monocyte count can be used to reliably distinguish between Zika virus and dengue fever.
Infectious disease experts from Emory University School of Medicine recommend that patients contemplating travel to Zika-affected areas consult with their care providers regarding travel plans and potential Zika virus testing.
