Under the new protocol, research manuscripts on the Zika epidemic — which WHO has declared an international public health emergency — will be posted online in WHO’s “Zika Open” collection within 24 hours while undergoing peer review. During the review process, the papers will be available for free, allowing readers to scrutinize, distribute and reproduce the research in any medium.
“Given the number and complexity of unanswered questions on the mechanisms and consequences of Zika infection and associated disease, our goal is to encourage all researchers to share their data as quickly and widely as possible,” according to a Bulletin editorial. “With this protocol for immediate online posting, we are providing another means to achieve immediate global access to relevant data.”
The first paper to which the WHO protocol applies has already been published online. To access the paper, click here.
More articles on Zika:
4 Florida counties declare state of emergency over Zika virus
CDC: Zika virus transmitted sexually in Texas
WHO declares Zika virus & link to birth defects an international public health emergency
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.