Few labs are certified to test for Zika, which means samples must be shipped to specialized labs. Results can take weeks, which can be particularly worrisome for women who are pregnant. The materials purchased by the CDC will allow labs to conduct a test which can detect Zika antibodies that appear in the blood four to five days after the beginning of the illness and remain detectable for 12 weeks.
On Sept. 14, a backlog of Zika tests in Florida — where mosquito-borne Zika transmission is ongoing — moved Gov. Rick Scott (R) to call on the CDC for more lab support after the agency announced it was sending seven lab technicians to improve Zika testing efforts in the state.
More articles on the Zika virus:
Scientists able to detect traces of Zika from eye swabs
Florida Zika update: Miami Beach transmission zone expands, Wynwood makes progress in mosquito control
New science proves Zika causes microcephaly
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.
