Americas News

Sexual Transmission of Zika Virus More Common Than Previously Thought

The World Health Organization says reports from several countries suggest that sexual transmission of the Zika virus is more common than previously thought.

The World Health Organization says reports from several countries suggest that sexual transmission of the Zika virus is more common than previously thought.

At a meeting of its emergency committee on Tuesday, Director-General Dr. Margaret Chan said “reports and investigations in several countries strongly suggest that sexual transmission of the virus is more common than previously assumed.”

Dr. Chan also said nine countries have now reported increasing cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare condition that can cause temporary paralysis and death.

Microcephaly is now only one of several documented birth abnormalities associated with Zika infection during pregnancy. It can cause growth problems, injuries to the central nervous system and fetal death, she added.

WHO last month said the outbreak in the Americas constitutes a global emergency.

(Image: Sandro Campardo/AP)

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