New Study Confirms In Utero Zika Virus Infection Can Affect Child Development

In a recent study, researchers have found that exposure to the Zika virus in the womb may alter children’s development. The study, which was published in the journal Nature Communications, followed a group of children in Brazil who were exposed to the Zika virus while in utero and found that they were more likely to have developmental delays and other neurocognitive problems.

According to the study’s lead author, Dr. Vanessa van der Linden, “Our findings suggest that in utero Zika virus infection can cause neurodevelopmental abnormalities and delay neurocognitive development in children.”

How is the Zika Virus transmitted?  Should pregnant women take precautions?

The CDC indicates that the Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected mosquito, but it can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her unborn child. In recent years, the virus has been linked to a serious birth defect called microcephaly, which causes babies to be born with small heads and brains.

Can a mother’s Zika infection alter a child’s development?

According to a new study, the effects of the Zika virus may extend beyond microcephaly and could impact a child’s overall development. The researchers found that the children in the study who were exposed to the virus in utero were more likely to have lower scores on tests of cognitive and motor skills, as well as delays in their development.

“These findings highlight the need for long-term follow-up and early interventions for children exposed to Zika virus in utero,” Dr. van der Linden said. “Early identification and intervention can improve outcomes for these children.”

How Can Mosquito Hunters help?

Mosquito control services from Mosquito Hunters protects against the Zika virus by reducing the population of mosquitoes around a home. The Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. By reducing the number of mosquitoes, the risk of being bitten by an infected mosquito and contracting the virus is also reduced.

Mosquito Hunters use a combination of methods to reduce mosquito populations. These can include treatments to kill adult mosquitoes, as well as methods to target mosquito larvae and prevent them from developing into adults.

In addition to reducing the overall mosquito population, mosquito control services from Mosquito Hunters can also help to identify and treat areas where mosquitoes are likely to breed, such as standing water. By eliminating these breeding sites, mosquito control services can further reduce the risk of a Zika outbreak.