Zika Virus and Neurologic Disease.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Zika virus (ZIKV), a Flaviviridae family member, is transmitted by arthropods.
• While often asymptomatic or mild, ZIKV is linked to severe neurological conditions, including congenital ZIKV syndrome (CZS) and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
• The WHO declared a public health emergency due to ZIKV's neurological complications, impacting 48 countries between 2015 and 2017.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the impact and implications of Zika virus (ZIKV) infections.
• To highlight the severe neurological outcomes associated with ZIKV, particularly congenital ZIKV syndrome (CZS).
• To underscore the need for comprehensive long-term management strategies for CZS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ZIKV transmission and associated neurological effects.
• Analysis of ZIKV's impact during the 2015-2017 outbreak in South America, Central America, and the Caribbean.
• Synthesis of information regarding the long-term care requirements for congenital ZIKV syndrome.

Main Results:

• ZIKV transmission affected 48 countries and territories.
• Severe neurological complications, such as CZS and Guillain-Barré syndrome, were identified.
• Long-term management of CZS necessitates integrated supportive services for early childhood development.

Conclusions:

• Zika virus poses a significant public health threat due to its potential for severe neurological complications.
• Congenital ZIKV syndrome requires ongoing, comprehensive care throughout a child's developmental stages.
• Continued surveillance and management strategies are essential for addressing the long-term consequences of ZIKV infections.