NIH seeks research applications to study Zika in pregnancy

The US National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced its research priorities for studies to investigate how Zika virus infection affects reproduction, pregnancy and the developing foetus.

Zika virus currently is circulating in about 30 countries and territories, notably in Latin America and the Caribbean. The virus has been linked to a spike in cases of microcephaly among newborn babies.

NIH says one of the highest priorities is to establish conclusively what role, if any, the virus has played in the marked increase in suspected microcephaly cases. In Brazil, more than 4,000 microcephaly cases have been reported since October 2015, up from 147 known cases in 2014. It is possible that these microcephaly cases could have another cause, or that a contributing factor in addition to Zika virus — another virus, for example — could be leading to the condition.

Studies needed to determine if Zika is present in reproductive fluids

Given recent reports that Zika virus may be sexually transmitted, NIH says studies also are needed to determine if the virus is present in reproductive fluids, such as semen or vaginal secretions, and whether it can cause infection via the reproductive tract. Evidence from such studies might prove important in informing guidance for preventing the spread of the virus through intimate contact, particularly for women who are pregnant or likely to become pregnant. Additionally, these studies may indicate whether the virus poses a hazard for in vitro fertilisation and other assisted reproductive procedures. Other studies of interest would investigate whether Zika virus infection affects long-term fertility in men and women and poses a risk for future pregnancies.

NIH also aims to modify ongoing studies to incorporate Zika virus research. For example, current studies of pregnant women and infants could be modified to check tissue samples for the virus and to look for potential health effects in those who were exposed.

You can read more about Zika here.