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Published on: August 23, 2016
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Probable transfusion-transmitted Zika virus in Brazil
Maria L Barjas-Castro1, Rodrigo N Angerami2, Mariana S Cunha3
1Hematology and Transfusion Center, Universidade Estadual de Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
Transfusion
|June 23, 2016
Summary
A probable case of transfusion-transmitted Zika virus (ZIKV) infection was identified through postdonation information from a blood donor. This highlights the risk of ZIKV transmission via blood products and the importance of donor reporting.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
- Potential transmission routes, including transfusion, are under investigation.
- This study reports a probable case of transfusion-transmitted ZIKV infection.
Observation:
- A blood donor reported a febrile illness postdonation.
- Stored donor samples tested positive for ZIKV via RT-PCR.
- A recipient of the donor's platelet concentrate also tested positive for ZIKV.
Findings:
- Sequencing confirmed 99.8% homology between ZIKV strains in the donor and recipient.
- The donor was likely in the incubation period at the time of donation.
- This represents a probable case of transfusion-transmitted ZIKV infection.
Implications:
- Underscores the risk of ZIKV transmission through blood transfusions.
- Highlights the critical role of postdonation information in identifying transfusion-transmitted infections.
- Emphasizes the need for recipient investigations during ZIKV outbreaks.
