Preparedness for Zika virus testing in the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region

Authors

  • Raynal C Squires Emerging Disease Surveillance and Response Unit, Division of Health Security and Emergencies, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines
  • Frank Konings Emerging Disease Surveillance and Response Unit, Division of Health Security and Emergencies, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Manila, Philippines

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5365/wpsar.2016.7.1.007

Abstract

On 1 February 2016, the World Health Organization declared that clusters of microcephaly cases and other neurological disorders in occurring in Zika virus (ZIKV)-affected areas constituted a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Increased surveillance of the virus, including the requirement for laboratory confirmation of infection, was recommended. The WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific therefore initiated a rapid survey among national-level public health laboratories in 19 countries and areas to determine regional capacity for ZIKV detection. The survey indicated that 16/19 (84%) of participants had in-country capacity for molecular detection of ZIKV while others facilitated testing through referral. These results suggest that robust laboratory capacity is in place to support ZIKV surveillance in the Western Pacific Region.

Published

31-03-2016

How to Cite

1.
Squires RC, Konings F. Preparedness for Zika virus testing in the World Health Organization Western Pacific Region. Western Pac Surveill Response J [Internet]. 2016 Mar. 31 [cited 2024 Nov. 21];7(1). Available from: https://ojs.wpro.who.int/ojs/index.php/wpsar/article/view/425

Issue

Section

Regional Analysis

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