Zika Virus Disease

The purpose of this course is to provide health professionals with a review of the important clinical and public health aspects of Zika virus disease, including the epidemiology of Zika virus migration, modes of transmission, clinical manifestations, approach to diagnosis, and strategies for risk reduction and prevention of infection. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented. 


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to: 


1. Describe the historical background and dynamics of the Zika virus epidemic in the Americas and its potential impact on public health.

2. Discuss and advise patients as to the risks of Zika virus infection in relation to the various routes of transmission.

3. Recognize and manage a patient presenting with characteristic clinical and epidemiologic features of acute Zika virus disease.

4. Discuss the salient features of microcephaly, including the incidence, causative factors, and clinical and pathologic findings unique to congenital Zika virus infection.

5. Select the appropriate laboratory diagnostic tests for Zika virus in relation to a patient's clinical profile and the time elapsed since exposure or onset of symptoms.

6. Devise a management plan for persons with known or suspected infection, including care of the pregnant patient or intimate partner.

7. Using knowledge of Zika virus shedding by infected men and the risk of sexual transmission, counsel patients and couples on the importance and recommended duration of safe sex practice.

8. Using knowledge of vector transmission and the behavior of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, devise an effective strategy for avoiding bites, limiting exposure, and eliminating mosquito-breeding habitat.


This 3-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.