Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: Zika virus infection

Abstract

This article addresses the vector, sexual and vertical transmissions of the Zika virus, a topic covered in the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. Although in Brazil Zika virus is transmitted more predominantly by Aedes aegypti, the vertical and sexual transmission routes are of significant importance for reproductive health. Sexual transmission demands specific prophylactic interventions, including the use of male or female condoms, especially among couples in a risk situation and planning pregnancy. Vertical transmission is linked to severe structural abnormalities of the central nervous system, and there is still no vaccine or known pharmacological resources that can prevent it. As the disease is predominantly asymptomatic, failure to comply with the basic principles of care and guidelines associated with the spread of the infection transcends the severity of the disease's symptoms.

Spatial analysis of Zika virus microcephaly cases in a Brazilian municipality

“…Assim, o controle vetorial, a ampliação da cobertura da coleta seletiva de resíduos sólidos, as condições que favorecem o acesso à água e ao saneamento, e a intensificação de orientações maternas para prevenção da infecção pelo vetor ou por via sexual, principalmente no primeiro e segundo trimestres de gestação são fundamentais para a redução da transmissão do vírus Zika e dos casos de microcefalia (17) .…”

Knowledge about clinical presentation, prevention strategies and sexual transmission of Zika virus infection among women of reproductive age in an endemic area

“…Although vector transmission is undoubtedly the main route of infection for ZIKV, spread through sexual contact also contributes to the transmission chain 24 and should be prevented particularly among pregnant women. Recommendations for abstinence and safer sex in high ZIKV transmission areas have been issued by Brazilian 25 as well as international organizations. 26 , 27…”

Enfermedades tropicales y embarazo: revisión narrativa

“…El período de incubación desde la infección hasta el inicio de la enfermedad por el virus Zika (VZIK) es de unos días a 2 semanas. El virus se transmite principalmente por el mosquito Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus, potencialmente por sangre, adicionalmente las rutas de transmisión vertical y sexual son de gran importancia para la salud sexual y reproductiva (68,69).…”