Zika Virus

07 August 2016

Over the past few months, there have been several news reports of the rapidly evolving situation regarding the Zika virus.

There are concerns that pregnant women who become infected with Zika virus can transmit the disease to their unborn babies, with potentially serious consequences.  The association between Zika virus and fetal malformations is still being investigated. However, rapidly accumulating evidence from the current outbreak appears to support a link between Zika virus infection and microcephaly and other serious brain abnormalities. Until more is known about Zika virus transmission in pregnancy and the association with adverse fetal outcomes, pregnant women should consider postponing travel to countries affected by the virus as authorities expand their list of places of concern.

The World Health Organisation, Department of Health Australia and Ministry of Health New Zealand has provided information via the links below for clinicians about the Zika virus, including a list of countries affected and guidelines for the care of pregnant women.

World Health Organization (WHO)

• Pregnancy management in the context of Zika virus

Information for Australia

Department of Health Australia

• http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/ohp-zika.htm

RANZCOG Guidance

• Care of women with cofirmed Zika virus infection during pregnancy in Australia
• Zika virus and congenital birth defects: Advice for couples living in Australia who are planning pregnancy

Information for New Zealand

Ministry of Health New Zealand

• http://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/zika-virus
• Zika virus: Interim guidance information for LMCs (midwives), GPs and other health professionals dealing with Zika virus in pregnancy (relevant in NZ ONLY)