When Zika virus first emerged, there was concern for the pregnant women in the affected regions as researchers didn’t know what effect Zika would have on the pregnant women and their babies. Two years ago, a picture of twins with microcephaly from Zika virus made worlwide news - but where are they now?
A recent article was published following up on the Zika babies of Brazil looking at the changes in development of these children and things haven’t been going so well. The report discusses how these babies are at an increased risk for multiple serious conditions such as vision problems, siezures, and cerebral palsy. The babies, aged 19 months to 2 years old, were given clinical exams and a neurological exam to see if they were reaching the developmental milestones. What they found was that the babies were unable to complete developmental activities that are expected at 6 months of age, such as sitting up by themselves. As the babies continue to grow, clinicians are unsure of whether they will be able to catch up to their peers, but some don’t seem very hopeful about this possibility. With this being the first time we are learning about Zika’s effect on babies both in utero and as they grow, we’re not sure what the long-term effects of the viral infection are. We are just beginning to learn what it will take to take care of these children and learn how the virus will continue to impact children.
-Meley GebresellassieSource:
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