Zika Virus Infection and Prolonged Viremia in Whole-Blood Specimens

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Zika virus (ZIKV) infection can cause significant public health concerns.
• Understanding viral persistence is crucial for disease management and prevention.
• Current diagnostic and screening methods rely on detecting viral RNA in specific sample types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the duration of Zika virus RNA persistence in whole blood versus plasma.
• To evaluate the implications of differential RNA persistence for clinical diagnosis and blood safety.

Main Methods:

• Whole blood and plasma samples were collected from immunocompetent patients with confirmed benign Zika virus infections.
• Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to detect and quantify Zika virus RNA.
• Sample analysis focused on determining the time frame of detectable RNA in each sample type.

Main Results:

• Zika virus RNA was detected in whole blood samples for a substantially longer period compared to plasma samples.
• The duration of viral RNA persistence varied significantly between the two sample types.
• Detectable RNA levels in whole blood persisted beyond the period observed in plasma.

Conclusions:

• Whole blood may serve as a more sensitive matrix for detecting prolonged Zika virus RNA presence.
• Findings suggest potential adjustments in diagnostic protocols for both symptomatic and asymptomatic Zika infections.
• The extended persistence in whole blood warrants consideration for blood donation screening protocols to ensure transfusion safety.