A 28-year-old pregnant woman tests positive for Zika virus. She is concerned about the risk to her baby. What should she be told?
Zika virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects, including microcephaly and other severe brain anomalies. However, not all babies exposed to Zika in utero will have problems. She should receive regular ultrasounds to monitor the fetus's development, especially of the brain and head size. If abnormalities are detected, she may be referred to a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine or infectious disease. She should also be provided with emotional support and reassurance, as this is likely a stressful time for her.