A new disease epidemic? Zika Virus

On 1 December 2015, WHO/PAHO released an epidemiological alert about Zika Virus cases (file:///C:/Users/tfurtado/Downloads/2015-dec-1-cha-epi-alert-zika-neuro-syndrome.pdf). Zika Virus is a mosquito-borne virus with feverish symptoms similar to dengue; however symptoms are usually mild and pass within around 2-7 days. However, Zika Virus has recently been linked with a sudden increase in cases of microcephaly (a neurological disorder stunting the growth of the cranium in infants; in 90% of cases, brain function is reduced, and life expectancy if also reduced). 2,401 microcephaly cases are under investigation in Brazil (December 2015), with 134 cases confirmed related to Zika virus infection.
The Brazilian health authorities are issuing advice to increase mosquito-eliminating behaviours, as well as to reduce the number of pregnancies. The health authorities have noted that more research is required to understand the link between Zika virus and microcephaly and other neurological disorders.
To keep updated on the latest news and research about zika virus, and for useful links and advice, visit The Global Health Network's Zika Virus homepage: https://zikainfection.tghn.org/