In light of the rising number of locally transmitted Zika cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued revised clinical guidance for the care of babies born to mothers who were likely infected with the virus.
The CDC says providers should conduct testing for congenital Zika infection for infants whose mothers have tested positive for Zika, as well as for babies who show signs of congenital infection. Testing is also recommended in cases where epidemiological evidence supports the possibility of transmission from the mother to the child.
The CDC also urges providers to perform a comprehensive physical examination on babies born to Zika-infected mothers and is recommending follow-up care through a multidisciplinary team for infants who either show signs of having abnormalities or test positive for congenital Zika infection.
But access to such medical resources will likely be out of reach for some families who lack adequate health coverage and do not have the means to pay for such additional services out of pocket.
