The Aftermath of Zika: Need for Long-Term Monitoring of Exposed Children

Trends Microbiol. 2018 Sep;26(9):729-732. doi: 10.1016/j.tim.2018.05.011. Epub 2018 Jun 27.

Abstract

Pregnancy infections with Zika virus are associated with a spectrum of fetal brain injuries beyond microcephaly. Nonmicrocephalic children exposed to Zika virus in utero or early life should undergo neurodevelopmental testing to identify deficits and allow for early intervention. Additionally, long-term monitoring for higher order neurocognitive deficits should be implemented.

Keywords: Zika virus; congenital Zika syndrome; fetus; flavivirus; neurocognitive testing; pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Brain Injuries
  • Child
  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging / congenital
  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging / diagnosis
  • Communicable Diseases, Emerging / epidemiology
  • Early Intervention, Educational*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mental Status and Dementia Tests
  • Microcephaly
  • Monitoring, Physiologic*
  • Neurocognitive Disorders
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications, Infectious / epidemiology
  • Zika Virus / pathogenicity*
  • Zika Virus Infection / congenital*
  • Zika Virus Infection / diagnosis*
  • Zika Virus Infection / epidemiology