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Potential for Zika virus transmission through blood transfusion demonstrated during an outbreak in French Polynesia,
1Unit of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Institut Louis Malarde, Tahiti, French Polynesia.
Abstract:
Since October 2013, French Polynesia has experienced the largest documented outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKAV) infection. To prevent transmission of ZIKAV by blood transfusion, specific nucleic acid testing of blood donors was implemented. From November 2013 to February 2014: 42 (3%) of 1,505 blood donors, although asymptomatic at the time of blood donation, were found positive for ZIKAV by PCR. Our results serve to alert blood safety authorities about the risk of post-transfusion Zika fever.
Insights
French Polynesia experienced a large Zika virus outbreak. Nucleic acid testing found 3% of asymptomatic blood donors positive, highlighting the risk of post-transfusion Zika fever.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- French Polynesia faced a significant Zika virus (ZIKAV) outbreak starting in October 2013.
- Zika virus transmission poses a risk through blood transfusions, necessitating safety measures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of Zika virus infection among blood donors during the outbreak.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of nucleic acid testing for blood donor screening.
Main Methods:
- Nucleic acid testing (PCR) was used to screen blood donors for ZIKAV.
- Data collected from November 2013 to February 2014.
Main Results:
- Out of 1,505 blood donors screened, 42 (3%) tested positive for ZIKAV.
- All positive donors were asymptomatic at the time of donation.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic blood donors can transmit Zika virus.
- Blood safety authorities must be alerted to the risk of post-transfusion Zika fever.
