Pregnant women living in or visiting an area where Zika spread is rampant need to take preventative measures — like protecting skin from exposure to mosquitoes, using insect repellants and practicing safe sex with partners throughout the duration of the pregnancy — seriously, according to new guidance from the World Health Organization.
WHO issued interim guidance Wednesday intended to reduce the risk of maternal Zika virus infection and manage any potential complications during pregnancy.
"Although Zika virus infection in pregnancy is typically a mild disease, an unusual increase in cases of congenital microcephaly, Guillain-Barré syndrome and other neurological complications in areas where outbreaks have occurred has significantly raised concern for pregnant women and their families, as well as health providers and policy-makers," according to WHO.
In addition to listing preventive measures for pregnant women, the guidance also covers diagnosis of pregnant women and care and management for all pregnant women living in affected areas.
See the full guidance here.