WHO Says ‘Accumulating Evidence’ Zika Associated With Microcephaly, GBS; Virus’s Effect On Future Pregnancies Unknown

Reuters: WHO convenes experts amid ‘accumulating evidence’ of Zika link to disorders
“There is ‘accumulating evidence’ of a link between the Zika virus and two neurological disorders, microcephaly, and Guillain-Barré syndrome, the World Health Organization said on Friday. The WHO’s Emergency Committee will meet next week to review ‘evolving information’ and its recommendations on travel and trade in what is thought to be high season for transmission of the mosquito-borne virus in the southern hemisphere, it said…” (Nebehay, 3/4).

Reuters: Questions grow about Zika’s risk to future pregnancy
“…More than a dozen disease experts, in interviews with Reuters, said there is no evidence at this point of long-term risk for future pregnancies. But, given the surprises seen with the virus so far, they said people should remain cautious until studies give scientists a better picture of how the virus works. … Public health agencies have urged pregnant women to avoid travel to Zika outbreak areas but have given little guidance for couples planning to start a family…” (Beasley, 3/4).

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