Prolonged Detection of Zika Virus in Vaginal Secretions and Whole Blood

Abstract

Infection with Zika virus is an emerging public health crisis. We observed prolonged detection of virus RNA in vaginal mucosal swab specimens and whole blood for a US traveler with acute Zika virus infection who had visited Honduras. These findings advance understanding of Zika virus infection and provide data for additional testing strategies.

Keywords: Honduras; PCR; United States; Zika virus; erythrocytes; infection; natural history; prolonged detection; saliva; traveler; urine; vaginal secretions; virus isolation; virus shedding; viruses; whole blood.

Figure

Quantitative reverse transcription PCR cycle threshold values over time (days after onset of illness) for whole blood, serum, urine, saliva, and vaginal mucosal swab specimens obtained from a 26-year-old woman infected with Zika virus who returned from Honduras to the United States. A cutoff value for a negative result was established at a cycle threshold of 40 (black horizontal line).