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Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito.
CDC recently released two interim guidelines for health care providers concerning potential Zika virus infections. The first guideline deals with caring for pregnant women during a Zika virus outbreak. The second guideline addresses the evaluation and testing of infants with possible congenital Zika virus infection. CDC is continuing to update the traveler alert list of countries with ongoing transmission of Zika virus. There currently are no confirmed cases in Iowa. The most recent information concerning affected countries, symptoms, treatment, etc. can be found at http://www.cdc.gov/zika/. The following information is for Iowa clinical and hospital laboratories. CDC guidance is continually changing and we anticipate our guidance will change with it. Please continue to check www.shl.uiowa.edu for updated information regarding Zika Virus. Diagnostic Testing All specimens should be submitted to SHL with a completed Viral and Bacterial PCR and DFA Test Request Form. If not already listed, indicate the specimen type on the “Other” line in the Specimen Information section. Write in Zika testing under the tests requested section and the recommended tests to be performed. Complete the pre-populated CDC specimen submission form CDC 50-34 to send along with the specimen(s). Specimens should be triple packaged as a Category B Biological Substance. Zika Virus Specimen Collection and Submission Instructions
Infants
Laboratory safety Resources For information on Zika virus infection
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