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AAP awarded $350,000 to assist in care for Zika-impacted children

The HHS has granted a $350,000 supplement to the AAP, in cooperation with the Health Resources and Services Administration, to collaborate on expanding care to children who are affected or are in danger of being affected by the Zika virus.

“Clinicians worldwide have limited experience caring for infants or children of women exposed to Zika virus during pregnancy, and no network exists to connect providers newly caring for these patients with one another and with those who have relevant expertise,” Nicole Lurie, MD, MSPH, HHS assistant secretary for preparedness and response, said in a press release. “The AAP effort can help us bridge this gap so that providers can learn from one another and are better prepared to support and care for their patients.”

The AAP will use the award to provide technical assistance, including tele-consultation, and education to providers at community health centers and clinicians at other sites in the United States and its territories who care or may care for children impacted by Zika.

According to the CDC, women infected with Zika virus in the first trimester of pregnancy had up to a 13% risk of their babies developing a severe brain defect. Developmental screening, clinical management and family support approaches will aid providers who care for pregnant women, infants and children affected by the virus.

“This funding is an opportunity to enhance our existing work implementing the medical home model for children, particularly children with special health care needs, to help address emerging health concerns related to the Zika virus,” Jim Macrae, HRSA acting administrator, said in the release.