Presence and Persistence of Zika Virus RNA in Semen, United Kingdom, 2016

• DOI: 10.3201/eid2304.161692
• Publication Date: 2016-12-20T16:18:05Z
• Authors: Barry Atkinson; Fiona Thorburn; Christina Petridou; Daniel Bailey; Roger Hewson; Andrew J.H. Simpson; Timothy J.G. Brooks; Emma J. Aarons
• Keywords: Zika Virus; Sexual transmission

Zika virus RNA has been detected in semen collected several months after onset of symptoms infection. Given the potential for sexual transmission and serious fetal abnormalities resulting from infection during pregnancy, information regarding persistence is critical advancing our understanding risks. We tested serial samples symptomatic male patients United Kingdom who had a diagnosis imported Among initial 23 patients, was at high levels 13 (56.5%) not 9 (39.1%); detection indeterminate 1 sample (4.4%). After infection, substantial proportion men have detectable copy numbers early convalescence, suggesting risk transmission. Viral clearance times are consistent can be prolonged.