Public health round-up

People living in areas affected by Zika virus should take measures to protect themselves from mosquito-bites and destroy mosquito habitats to prevent pregnant women becoming infected with Zika virus, according to WHO interim guidance issued last month. Zika virus infection in pregnancy is typically a mild disease, but an unusual increase in cases of neurological disorders and neonatal malformations in areas where Zika outbreaks have occurred, has raised concern for pregnant women and their families. WHO issued interim guidance on steps that national and local health managers can take when developing protocols and health policies related to pregnancy care in the context of Zika virus transmission. “The importance of preventive measures should be emphasized [by health professionals] at every contact with a pregnant woman,” the guidance says. These preventive measures include mosquito bednets, including when sleeping during the daytime; mosquito mesh/nets/screens on windows and doors; insect repellents and clothes that cover as much of the body as possible. To prevent potential sexual acquisition of Zika virus during pregnancy, the sexual partners of pregnant women, living in or returning from areas of ongoing Zika virus transmission, should, for the duration of the pregnancy, use condoms or adhere to other safe sexual practices, including abstinence, the guidance says. In addition, safe sex practices are recommended for people infected with Zika, dengue and chikungunya virus, including consistent and correct use of condoms, for at least four weeks after onset of symptoms to avoid further spread of these infections, the guidance says. The guidance also provides advice on the diagnosis and care of pregnant women with Zika infection. http://www.who.int/csr/resourcces/publications/zika/pregnancy-management/ Psychosocial guidance and Zika