Zika Virus: Patient Education Recommendations

Abstract

As the current growing threat to maternal-fetal health, the most recent and largest outbreak of the Zika virus has introduced the devastating fetal effects of microcephaly and other central nervous system deficits. Therefore, the need for appropriate recognition, treatment, management, and prevention of the Zika virus prompts the necessity for further education and high quality level research to be conducted and utilized. A search of the literature using the databases PubMed, UptoDate, and CINAHL was conducted for articles published between 2009 and 2016. In addition, key informant interviews from various specialties including clinical genetics and public health were conducted. The proposed best practice recommendations for education regarding the Zika virus and appropriate prevention and treatment methods are outlined in an electronic education module that would be delivered to patients and their families prior to visiting their healthcare providers. As the Zika virus continues to spread and further research is conducted regarding its teratogenic effects, the need for concise and effective education is critical in order to raise awareness and conversely decrease the potential for maternal exposure and adverse fetal outcomes.