Zika virus disease

Zika epidemiology update

2 July 2019 - WHO compiled an updated summary of the global epidemiology of Zika virus transmission. This review of global surveillance data and scientific publications provides a comprehensive overview of Zika virus transmission and congenital Zika syndrome worldwide. The continued accumulation of epidemiologic data has advanced our understanding of Zika transmission, global spread, and disease. Zika transmission persists, but has generally been at low levels throughout 2018 to the present. Findings underscore the importance of sustained vigilance in the wake of the 2015-2016 epidemic to track disease and ensure country preparedness for early detection and response, including vector control and development of diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics.

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WHO/Y. Shimizu

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Zika diagnostics added to the WHO Essential Diagnostics List

9 July 2019 - WHO published its second List of Essential In Vitro Diagnostics, a core document that provides guidance to countries on diagnostics that are essential for advancing universal health coverage, addressing health emergencies and promoting healthier populations. Diagnostics for Zika virus infection were added to this year’s updated list, along with additional diagnostics for both communicable and noncommunicable diseases.

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Zika virus included in the 2018 annual review of the Blueprint list of priority diseases

6-7 February 2018 – WHO convened the 2nd annual review of the Research and Development Blueprint list of priority diseases. Zika was identified as a priority disease in urgent need of accelerated research and development, given its capacity to cause a public health emergency and the absence of efficacious drugs and vaccines. For the purposes of the R&D Blueprint, WHO developed a special tool for determining which diseases and pathogens to prioritize for research and development in public health emergency contexts.

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WHO

WHO toolkit for the care and support of people affected by complications associated with Zika virus

20 June 2017 – This toolkit incorporates and builds upon the relevant guidelines and supportive documents developed in the past year from WHO and partners as part of the overall global response to Zika. The toolkit is designed to serve as a model guide, with the goal of enhancing country preparedness to Zika virus disease outbreaks.

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WHO/Y. Shimizu

Launch of the Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030

May 2017 – WHO developed an integrated strategy to address the growing threats of disease transmitted by mosquitoes and other vectors. The Global Vector Control Response 2017-2030 outlines an approach for enhanced vector control capacity and capability, and a call for increased research to better prevent disease and improve outbreak preparedness and response. At the 2017 World Health Assembly, Member States adopted a resolution to support this strategy and align their national vector control strategies with the plan.