Zika Virus

Question 1

Check for zika virus infection after how much time

Answer 1

• > 4wks after trip from area suspected zika virus infection to exclude recent zika virus infection, then no need extra fetal U/S f/up (28-30wks).

Question 2

When zika identified on laboratory test

Answer 2

• Where ZIKV is identified on laboratory testing (RT-PCR for symptomatic patients with onset of symptoms within the previous week), referred to a fetal medicine service.

Question 3

If test for zika negative

Answer 3

• If test for ZIKV is -ve, serial (4-weekly) fetal U/S scans to monitor fetal growth & anatomy If there is fetal abnormality on U/S and Zika virus PCR on amniocentesis is +ve, it is highly likely that abnormality is Zika virus associated. When brain abnormalities are identified on U/S scan, do fetal brain MRI that may detect further abnormalities. When a significant brain abnormality or microcephaly is confirmed, discuss TOP with the woman, regardless of gestation.

Question 4

precaution when partner travel to zika area

Answer 4

• Consider condoms to prevent against infection for women whose partner has been to an area with ZIKV transmission:
  •for 28 days after his return home if he had no ZIKV symptoms, either whilst abroad or within 2 weeks of his leaving affected country
  •for 6 months following recovery if he had ZIKV symptoms during that period

Question 5

Returnin UK from Zika endemic area

Answer 5

• On returning to the UK, they should avoid becoming pregnant for a further 28 days; this allows for a maximum two week incubation period and possible two-week viraemia and seroconversion.

Question 6

Zika transmission

Answer 6

Transmission: bite of infected female Aedes mosquito are, similar to dengue fever (caused by related flavivirus) & chikungunya (an alphavirus). So, IgM & IgG can’t differentiate between them.

Human-mosquito-human, & direct human to human transmission does not occur. sexual transmission of the virus in human semen can occur . Maternal fetal transmission have been confirmed.

Question 7

zika placental barrier

Answer 7

ZIKV can cross the placental barrier and the virus has been detected in blood and tissues of affected fetuses/infants.

Question 8

zika breast feeding

Answer 8

N/E that ZIKV can be transmitted to babies through breast milk