Unravelling the Paediatric and Perinatal Zika Virus Epidemic through Population-based Research

Area of Science:

• * Infectious Diseases
• * Epidemiology
• * Public Health

Background:

• * The Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic has spread to 72 countries worldwide.
• * ZIKV is transmitted through mosquito bites and bodily fluids, causing Guillain-Barré Syndrome and severe pregnancy complications like microcephaly.
• * Diagnosis is challenging due to asymptomatic infections, similar symptoms to dengue and chikungunya, and serological cross-reactivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To elucidate ZIKV epidemiology and transmission dynamics.
• * To investigate vertical transmission and fetal risks associated with maternal ZIKV infection.
• * To understand the natural history of congenital and non-congenital ZIKV infections.

Main Methods:

• * Population-based studies conducted by the ZIKAction research consortium.
• * Research spans Latin America, Europe, and the Caribbean.
• * Study funded by the European Commission.

Main Results:

• * ZIKV epidemic involves 72 countries globally.
• * Multimodal transmission routes identified.
• * Significant pregnancy complications and neurological disorders linked to ZIKV.

Conclusions:

• * Large-scale population studies are essential for understanding ZIKV.
• * Further research is needed to address the lack of cure and preventive vaccines.
• * The ZIKAction consortium aims to provide critical insights into ZIKV infection.