AI Article Synopsis
- The Zika virus epidemic that began in 2015 in the Americas has been linked to an increase in microcephaly cases in Brazil, indicating a causal relationship between the virus and brain abnormalities in newborns.
- While mosquito bites are the main transmission method, sexual transmission of Zika has also been confirmed, along with its association with Guillain Barre Syndrome.
- Future research is crucial for understanding the long-term effects on affected infants and for developing a vaccine, alongside efforts to educate vulnerable populations on prevention strategies.
Article Abstract
Introduction/background: Since 2015, an epidemic of Zika virus spread across the Americas. This coincided with an increased incidence of microcephaly reported at birth in Brazil, with subsequent evidence of a causal association.
Sources Of Data: Systemic reviews, observational studies, public health organizations.
Areas Of Agreement: Zika virus causes microcephaly and brain abnormalities in infants born to mothers infected during or shortly before pregnancy. Zika virus is a trigger for Guillain Barre Syndrome. Whilst mosquito bite is the main route of transmission, sexual transmission is another confirmed route.
Areas Of Controversy: Uncertainty remains regarding the proportion of Zika-infected pregnancies that will give rise to a significantly affected infant.
Growing Points: The development of a vaccine remains a priority whilst public health efforts continue to educate at risk populations on reducing transmission.
Areas Timely For Developing Research: Follow-up studies of affected infants are vital to inform on prognosis and guide screening programmes of the future.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldx038v1 | DOI Listing |
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