CDC Enhances Zika Tracking; North Dakota Health Officials Monitor Risk for Pregnant Women

Why it matters locally: While North Dakota is not a high-risk area for Zika virus transmission due to its climate and lack of established mosquito vectors known to carry the virus, the CDC's enhanced tracking of pregnancy outcomes related to Zika is still relevant to residents. Specifically, North Dakota residents who travel to Zika-affected areas could potentially be exposed. The enhanced surveillance allows state health officials to stay informed about the potential risks to pregnant women who may have traveled and contracted the virus, ensuring appropriate monitoring and care. State health organizations can also leverage this data for educational efforts to inform travelers about preventative measures.

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Atlanta – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the start of a new surveillance system to monitor pregnancy outcomes in women with laboratory evidence of possible Zika virus infection. Starting today, the agency will publicly report data related to adverse pregnancy and birth conditions potentially linked to Zika. The CDC aims to improve understanding of the virus's impact on pregnant women and their infants through this more detailed tracking. Key indicators to be monitored include: * Microcephaly * Other brain defects * Eye damage * Hearing loss * Impaired growth Previously, the CDC tracked Zika cases and provided guidelines for pregnant women and those planning to become pregnant. This new reporting system marks an expansion of those efforts, focusing specifically on the outcomes of pregnancies where Zika infection was potentially present. Data collected will add to the breadth of information regarding the health risks involved in contracting Zika virus during pregnancy.