Related Experiment Videos
Preparedness for Zika virus testing in the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region
Raynal C Squires1, Frank Konings1,
1Emerging Disease Surveillance and Response Unit, Division of Health Security and Emergencies, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines .
Abstract:
On 1 February 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that clusters of microcephaly cases and other neurological disorders occurring in Zika virus (ZIKV)-affected areas constituted a public health emergency of international concern. Increased surveillance of the virus, including the requirement for laboratory confirmation of infection, was recommended. The WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific therefore initiated a rapid survey among national-level public health laboratories in 19 countries and areas to determine regional capacity for ZIKV detection. The survey indicated that 16/19 (84%) countries had capacity for molecular detection of ZIKV while others facilitated testing through referral. These results suggest that robust laboratory capacity is in place to support ZIKV surveillance in the Western Pacific Region.
Insights
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Zika virus (ZIKV) a global health emergency. A survey found most Western Pacific labs can detect ZIKV, supporting surveillance efforts.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- The World Health Organization declared Zika virus (ZIKV) a public health emergency in 2016 due to associated neurological disorders.
- Enhanced surveillance and laboratory confirmation were recommended for ZIKV infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the laboratory capacity for Zika virus (ZIKV) detection in the Western Pacific Region.
- To inform public health strategies for ZIKV surveillance.
Main Methods:
- A rapid survey was conducted among national public health laboratories in 19 countries and areas.
- The survey focused on assessing molecular detection capabilities for ZIKV.
Main Results:
- 84% (16/19) of surveyed countries possess in-house capacity for molecular ZIKV detection.
- Other countries utilize referral systems for laboratory confirmation.
- The region demonstrates significant laboratory capability for ZIKV surveillance.
Conclusions:
- The Western Pacific Region has established laboratory infrastructure to support ZIKV surveillance.
- The findings support ongoing efforts to monitor and control ZIKV outbreaks.