CDC to Track Pregnancy Outcomes Related to Zika: Impact on North Carolina

Why it matters locally: The CDC's expanded Zika virus tracking directly impacts North Carolina residents, particularly pregnant women and those planning families. While Zika transmission is not currently widespread in NC, the state's warm climate makes it potentially vulnerable to increased mosquito populations and possible future outbreaks, particularly in the coastal plain. Enhanced CDC surveillance allows NC's Department of Health and Human Services to better prepare for and respond to any potential Zika cases in pregnant women, ensuring that those at risk receive appropriate care and counseling. The data on adverse birth outcomes will inform public health strategies and resource allocation for affected infants, potentially influencing healthcare services and early intervention programs across the state.

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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.