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WHO investigates possible new congenital syndrome caused by Zika virus
A collection of existing evidence and unpublished data shared with WHO that describes a wider range of congenital abnormalities in fetuses exposed to Zika virus infection during pregnancy suggested that the conditions may be part of a new congenital syndrome, according to an editorial published in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization.
As a result, a surveillance system initially established to monitor microcephaly cases caused by Zika virus has been expanded to include other congenital malformations possibly associated with the infection.
Anthony Costello
Anthony Costello, MD, of WHO’s department of maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, and colleagues reported that some infants affected by Zika virus have neurological abnormalities with a normal head circumference. Congenital abnormalities, along with microcephaly, include craniofacial disproportion, spasticity, seizures, irritability and brainstem dysfunction. According to preliminary data from Colombia and Panama, genitourinary, cardiac and digestive systems also can be affected by the virus when acquired in utero.
“The range of abnormalities seen and the likely causal relationship with Zika virus infection suggest the presence of a new congenital syndrome,” Costello and colleagues wrote. “The scope of the syndrome will expand as further information and longer follow-up of affected children become available.”
To better define the syndrome, WHO is calling upon researchers to share their data related to congenital manifestations of Zika virus infection. Costello and colleagues emphasized the need for routine surveillance systems and protocols for children without microcephaly who are affected by Zika virus. With 37 countries and territories in the Americas reporting mosquito-borne and sexual transmission of Zika virus, the researchers estimate that “many thousands of infants” may be born with neurological disabilities.
“The Zika virus public health emergency is distinct because of its long-term health consequences and social impact,” Costello and colleagues concluded. “A coordinated approach to data sharing, surveillance and research is needed. WHO has thus started coordinating efforts to define the congenital Zika virus syndrome and issues an open invitation to all partners to join in this effort.” – by Stephanie Viguers
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