Background
On 1 February 2016, WHO declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) regarding microcephaly, other neurological disorders and Zika virus. This year marks ten years since the event. Zika virus remains an important arboviral threat in many regions, with persistent low‑level transmission, periodic resurgences, and ongoing risks for pregnant women and newborns. Although research has advanced, no licensed vaccine or targeted treatment exists, underscoring the need for continued awareness, capacity‑building, and community‑level engagement.
Objectives
- To update participants on the latest evidence on Zika epidemiology, transmission, and clinical outcomes.
- Highlight progress in vaccine and diagnostic development and discuss implications for preparedness and response.
- Strengthen community‑level awareness and risk communication, especially for protecting pregnant women.
- Foster dialogue across sectors—public health, laboratory networks, maternal health programs, and community organizations.
Tentative Agenda and Speakers
Introduction: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO
Welcome remarks: Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, Director a.i., Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Management (EPM), WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE)
Global epidemiology of Zika: Dr Diana Rojas Alvarez, Unit Head a.i., Emerging Zoonoses & High Impact Epidemics, EPM, WHE
Zika in Brazil: 10 years after the Emergency: Dr Livia Vinhal Frutuoso, National coordinator of Arbovirus surveillance, Ministry of Health, Brazil
Following up cohorts of children in Congenital Zika Syndrome in Colombia: Dr Marcela Mercado, Head of Research, Clinica del Country, Bogota
Status of research and innovation on Zika: Dr Eve Lackritz, Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, University of Minnesota
Wastewater surveillance to track Zika circulation in Singapore: Dr Shuzhen Sim, Director, Microbiology and Molecular Epidemiology, National Environmental Agency, Singapore
Q&A
Closing remarks and next steps: EPI-WIN Science and Knowledge Translation, WHO
Presentations
Video recording