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.

Keywords:
Zika virus; Sexually transmitted infections; Vertical transmission; Microcephaly; Congenital abnormality; Disease prevention

Highlighted excerpt:

Although in Brazil Zika virus is predominantly transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, vertical and sexual transmission routes are important for reproductive health. Vertical transmission causes severe central nervous system structural abnormalities.