Zika 2.0
October 14, 2016
Given that Zika is now spreading locally in the US and a whole cohort of babies may now be born with this virus, there is an urgent need to educate public health practitioners on developmental monitoring, screening, early identification of issues, and how to speak sensitively with families about their concerns. This is the focus of Zika 2.0.
Babies born with Zika may experience a spectrum of needs from the most severe cases of microcephaly, a serious condition where an infant's head is smaller than average, to vision problems, hearing loss, seizures, intellectual disabilities, reduced speech and language abilities, and other long-term developmental disabilities. The CDC estimates that the lifetime cost of care for a baby born with microcephaly is at least $10 million. As babies affected by Zika become toddlers and children, it is important to understand the issues that may affect them during the critical birth to age five growth period.
Even though babies born with Zika may look typical at birth, subtle changes that turn into serious problems could occur as they become older. Ongoing developmental screenings and early identifications are necessary to be able to detect these changes. Monitoring milestones of development and early intervention programs for infants and toddlers born with Zika are a critical part of support systems.
Sensitive language that supports these children and their families is essential. Every person deserves respect in words and actions of public health practitioners.
View the AUCD Statement on Zika Virus
Zika Resources in the Public Health is for Everyone Toolkit
Public Health Is for Everyone is a one-stop living collection of resources and best practices on health and disability to ensure public health efforts reach people living with a disability.
Zika resources for workforce capacity on disability and developmental monitoring are available in the Public Health is for Everyone Toolkit
Visit: http://www.phetoolkit.org/search.cfm
