Public health group calls for increased resources to combat the spread of Zika virus

The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) recently called for continued resources to support a long-term public health response against Zika virus.

The group’s request includes increased laboratory, epidemiological, and surveillance capacity, along with enhanced vector controls and public education campaigns.

ZIka virus is most commonly spread through the bite of Aedes aegypti species mosquito, but can be spread through sexual contact as well. Typical symptoms include joint pain, rash, and high fever. More seriously, the virus has been linked to microcephaly of the fetus in pregnant women and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

“Public health has a long history of combatting and eradicating mosquito-borne diseases, but ensuring robust epidemiological and laboratory infrastructure across the governmental public health system is critical to stay ahead of the spread of Zika virus,” ASTHO President-Elect Brenda Fitzgerald said.

Fitzgerald said her home state of Georgia had limited geographic mosquito surveillance and vector control capabilities, which caused particular concern for communities that were densely populated, had high rates of poverty, and a large number of females of childbearing age.

The group also requested sustained investments in public health funding to give state, local, tribal and territorial health departments the resources needed to pursue a broad range of response strategies.