New Zika Virus Test Authorized: What it Means for Minnesota

Why it matters locally: While Zika virus isn't a widespread concern in Minnesota due to our climate limiting mosquito populations that carry the virus, the FDA's authorization of a new diagnostic test still impacts residents. Minnesotans who travel to regions where Zika is prevalent, such as parts of the Caribbean, South America, or even some areas of the Southern United States, are potentially at risk. This new test increases testing capacity and could theoretically speed up diagnosis for returning travelers who present with symptoms, allowing for quicker advice regarding potential risks, especially for pregnant women or those planning pregnancies. Furthermore, the authorization contributes to national disease surveillance efforts. Minnesota's public health laboratories may eventually utilize the CDC-developed test if the need arises, contributing to a more robust nationwide system for tracking and responding to potential Zika outbreaks. The state's health department can use the new information to further inform and refine guidance to residents about travel precautions.

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Washington D.C. – The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a new diagnostic test designed to detect the Zika virus. The test was developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The authorization, announced [Date unavailable from source text], is intended to expand the nation's laboratory capacity for Zika testing. This action allows authorized laboratories within the United States to utilize the new CDC-developed test. The CDC developed the test and is expected to oversee its distribution to qualified laboratories. Further details regarding the rollout and specific capabilities of the test were not immediately available.