In late February, the United States saw the first hospital-based rapid test for the Zika virus become available. Developed through the L.E. and Virginia Simmons Collaborative in Virus Detection and Surveillance—a program focused on accelerating virus detection in large metropolitan regions—the test resulted from a joint effort between Texas Children’s Hospital and Houston Methodist Hospital. This rapid assay delivers results within hours and can analyze blood, amniotic fluid, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid.
“With travel-associated Zika cases rising in the United States and the seasonal increase in mosquito exposure during spring and summer, we must be prepared for a surge in testing demand,” said James Versalovic, M.D., Ph.D., pathologist-in-chief at Texas Children’s Hospital. “Timely testing provides answers for expectant mothers and families who experience symptoms or have travel history to affected regions.”
The new diagnostic can differentiate Zika infection from related viruses such as Dengue and West Nile. At present, testing is offered at one of the collaborating hospitals, with plans to accept referrals from other hospitals and clinics in the future. Current testing protocols prioritize individuals with recent travel to affected areas who are showing symptoms consistent with Zika or who are pregnant.
Public health authorities, including the World Health Organization, recommend that pregnant women discuss travel risks with their healthcare provider before visiting areas where Zika transmission is ongoing.