WHO guidelines for the prevention of sexual transmission of Zika virus
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World Health Organization
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84 p.
These WHO guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to prevent the sexual transmission of Zika virus, updating the interim guidance issued during the 2016 Public Health Emergency of International Concern. They reflect the expanded evidence available on sexual transmission, viral persistence and condom effectiveness, and were developed through the formal WHO guideline development process using systematic reviews, GRADE assessment and evidence-to-decision frameworks. The guidelines distinguish between settings with and without ongoing mosquito-borne transmission and address the differing risks associated with travel, pregnancy and conception. The recommendations focus on providing accurate information about sexual transmission risks, promoting informed contraceptive choices, and advising the correct and consistent use of condoms or abstinence for defined periods following infection or potential exposure. They include specific guidance for sexually active women and men, women and couples planning pregnancy, pregnant women and their sexual partners, and travellers to and from areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission. The guidelines also reinforce safer sexual practices as part of comprehensive prevention strategies and identify research priorities to address remaining evidence gaps concerning sexual transmission and preventive interventions.
These WHO guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations to prevent the sexual transmission of Zika virus, updating the interim guidance issued during the 2016 Public Health Emergency of International Concern. They reflect the expanded evidence available on sexual transmission, viral persistence and condom effectiveness, and were developed through the formal WHO guideline development process using systematic reviews, GRADE assessment and evidence-to-decision frameworks. The guidelines distinguish between settings with and without ongoing mosquito-borne transmission and address the differing risks associated with travel, pregnancy and conception. The recommendations focus on providing accurate information about sexual transmission risks, promoting informed contraceptive choices, and advising the correct and consistent use of condoms or abstinence for defined periods following infection or potential exposure. They include specific guidance for sexually active women and men, women and couples planning pregnancy, pregnant women and their sexual partners, and travellers to and from areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission. The guidelines also reinforce safer sexual practices as part of comprehensive prevention strategies and identify research priorities to address remaining evidence gaps concerning sexual transmission and preventive interventions.