Is Zika virus still considered a significant public health emergency globally, specifically in 2024? I’m interested in understanding the current assessment from organizations like the WHO and CDC. Has the level of alert been downgraded, or are there still active warnings and travel advisories in place for specific regions? Beyond the global designation, are there specific countries or regions currently experiencing outbreaks or facing heightened risks of Zika transmission that would warrant heightened concern? What are the latest statistics on Zika cases and any reported complications like microcephaly, and what are the ongoing preventative measures recommended to the public?
Answer
No, the Zika virus is no longer considered a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO declared the end of the PHEIC status on November 18, 2016.
While the PHEIC designation has ended, Zika virus transmission continues in many parts of the world, and the virus remains a significant public health challenge. Ongoing efforts focus on surveillance, prevention, research, and care for those affected by Zika virus infection, particularly pregnant women and their infants.
Specific areas of continued focus include:
- Surveillance: Monitoring the spread of the virus in human and mosquito populations, including genomic surveillance to track the evolution of the virus.
- Vector Control: Reducing mosquito populations through measures such as insecticide spraying, larval source management, and public education on eliminating breeding sites.
- Prevention: Promoting personal protective measures against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and staying in screened or air-conditioned environments. Providing guidance on safe sex practices to prevent sexual transmission.
- Care and Support: Ensuring access to healthcare services for pregnant women and individuals infected with Zika virus, including diagnostic testing, prenatal care, and support for families affected by congenital Zika syndrome.
- Research: Conducting research to better understand the virus, develop vaccines and antiviral therapies, and improve diagnostic tools. Research also focuses on understanding the long-term effects of Zika virus infection.
- Vaccine Development: Several Zika vaccine candidates are in various stages of development and clinical trials.
- Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS): Monitoring children born to mothers infected with Zika during pregnancy for signs of CZS and providing specialized care and interventions. Common features include microcephaly, brain abnormalities, eye defects, and limb contractures.
- Risk Communication: Communicating effectively with the public about the risks of Zika virus infection and how to prevent it, particularly for pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant.
- International Collaboration: Working with international partners to share information, coordinate research efforts, and provide support to affected countries.
- Travel Advisories: Providing updated travel advisories for areas with active Zika virus transmission to help travelers make informed decisions.
- Diagnostic Testing: Improving the accuracy and availability of diagnostic tests for Zika virus infection. Molecular tests (RT-PCR) and serological tests are used to detect the virus or antibodies against it.
- Understanding Long-term Effects: Studying the long-term health effects of Zika virus infection, including neurological and developmental outcomes in children with congenital Zika syndrome. Also studying potential links to other neurological disorders in adults.
Despite the end of the PHEIC, these sustained efforts are crucial for minimizing the impact of Zika virus on public health.