Zika virus infection: guidance for primary care

There is an ongoing outbreak of Zika virus infection, mostly focussed in South and Central America and the Caribbean. Based on a growing body of research, there is scientific consensus that Zika virus is a cause of microcephaly and other congenital anomalies (also referred to as congenital Zika syndrome) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (World Health Organization, 14 April 2016). Symptomatic Zika virus infection is typically mild and short-lived in most individuals, but particular attention is required for women who are pregnant or who are planning a pregnancy due to the risks of Zika virus to the developing fetus.

Public Health England has updated its guidance on Zika. The document summarises key advice for those working in primary care, since they may be consulted by patients, including pregnant women, who are travelling to or returning from countries that are part of this outbreak (i.e. those countries with active Zika transmission).

The document can be found here.

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle